The Reasons Prince Andrew is Giving Up His Royal Honors – and What It Means for the Royal Family
Through a statement issued via the royal household, the king's brother has confirmed he is giving up his royal titles, including his dukedom. Here is an overview of what was revealed – and what wasn't.
What Has Andrew Said?
Having already stepped down as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, Andrew has currently decided to “take additional measures” and agree to refrain from using the “title or the honours which have been granted to” him.
However, he used the statement to make a point of denying – as he has always done – the allegations of sexual impropriety leveled at him; albeit having paid out a substantial sum to resolve the legal claim filed by Virginia Giuffre – a settlement in which he admitted no liability and firmly denied any claims of wrongdoing.
There has existed ongoing scrutiny toward the royal institution regarding the claims against Andrew – particularly after his ill-fated Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He presently states he is acting to safeguard the royal family from further damage resulting from media scrutiny.
Has the King Removed Him of His Titles?
No. And, while this might be viewed as a simple procedure, it holds importance in two respects: initially, it allows Andrew to openly state to have acted honourably in support of the monarchy. As he said in his announcement: “I have decided, consistent with my past, to prioritize my obligations to my family and country first.”
Second, although he consented not to use it, Andrew retains the dukedom, as well as the honors the Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh and the prestigious Garter role as Royal Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter. Like the HRH royal style title, they essentially become dormant.
He continues to be royalty and eighth in succession to the throne. In theory, he remains still a counsellor of state – and may deputize for the king should he be overseas or ill. However royal officials has indicated that, in practice, he will not be asked to perform these duties.
Nevertheless, it is telling that the prince's announcement said this choice was made “following talks with the monarch”. There seems little doubt that, privately, the royal household advocated for the move in the aim of cutting Andrew loose.
Why Hasn’t He Been Officially Stripped of His Entire Honors?
To forcibly remove a ducal title would require an act of parliament, and would constitute an unprecedented step publicly before the nation – it has not occurred to a high-ranking royal in more than 100 years – that it could result in further harm to the image for the monarchy.
Andrew is also a royal by birth. At his birth in 1960, he became as the son of a monarch. This could only be changed if a royal decree was issued by the king.
The whole process might ultimately being drawn-out, meaning the objective of swiftly resolving the issue – at least for the monarchy's interests – may not be achieved.
What Are the Implications for Andrew?
Humiliation, likely above all. The announcement signifies an effective loss of status he has resisted for years.
He and his ex-wife, Sarah, continue to reside in Royal Lodge, notwithstanding reported efforts by his brother to encourage Andrew to move out of the thirty-room royal residence in Windsor Great Park.
While little light has been shed on the precise amount of money Andrew has received due to his position, he continues to be a wealthy individual. In 2007, he managed to raise £15m from the sale of a property that had been a wedding present from the queen, as an instance.
What Prompted This?
The continual list of scandals related to the prince has become intolerable for the monarch and other high-ranking family members.
His association with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has again under scrutiny following revelations Andrew had told him “we share this situation” in an email dispatched months after he claimed to have ceased contact.
Additionally, there were reports about his connections with an alleged Chinese spy and, this week, excerpts were published from the book released after death of Giuffre, who died by suicide in April. She claimed Andrew “believed that having sex with me was his birthright”.
Furthermore, the king is scheduled to make a historic visit to see the pontiff soon, during which he will be the initial British king since Henry VIII split with Rome in 1534 to worship openly with the pope and leader of Catholicism. He will not have wanted that visit to be overshadowed by further adverse coverage about Andrew.
What Was the Reaction?
Although he stated Giuffre had been “justified” by the move, her sibling Sky Roberts has told the Times that Andrew’s honorary prince title should be revoked for “genuine accountability” to be achieved.
The anti-monarchist campaign group Republic has additionally stated the move is “insufficient and delayed”, adding: “Andrew remains facing allegations of sexual offences and abuse of office. He ought to be divested of every honor and his military position and should undergo a criminal investigation. Not using silly medieval titles is not a punishment that fits the offences.”
