Why the Duke of York is Giving Up His Official Honors – and the Implications for the Royal Family
In a statement released by the royal household, Prince Andrew has declared he is relinquishing his official honors, such as the Duke of York. Here is an overview of what was revealed – and what wasn't.
What Did the Prince Announced?
After previously stepped down as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, the prince has now chosen to “take additional measures” and consent not to use the “title or the honours which have been granted to” him.
However, he employed the announcement to make a point of denying – consistent with his past statements – the allegations of misconduct made against him; albeit having paid out a substantial sum to settle the civil sexual assault case brought by Virginia Giuffre – an agreement in which he admitted no liability and strongly rejected all allegations of improper conduct.
There has been persistent pressure on the monarchy regarding the claims involving the prince – particularly after his ill-fated television appearance with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He now claims that his actions are to safeguard his relatives from further damage caused by media scrutiny.
Did the Monarch Removed Him of His Titles?
No. And, while this could be dismissed as a mere formality, it is significant in multiple ways: initially, it enables the prince to publicly claim to have acted honourably in support of the crown. As he said in his statement: “I have chosen, consistent with my past, to prioritize my obligations to my relatives and country first.”
Second, while he has agreed not to use it, Andrew retains his ducal title, as well as the titles his earldom and Baron Killyleagh and the prestigious position as a member of the Order of the Garter. Similar to the royal style title, they are effectively inactive.
He remains a prince and eighth in succession to the throne. Theoretically, he remains still a counsellor of state – and may deputize for the sovereign should he be abroad or ill. However royal officials has indicated that, realistically, he would not be asked to perform these duties.
Nonetheless, it is significant that the prince's announcement indicated the decision was made “following talks with the monarch”. It appears little doubt that, privately, the palace advocated for the move in the aim of distancing the institution from Andrew.
Why Hasn’t He Been Officially Stripped of His Entire Honors?
To forcibly remove a dukedom would require legislative action, and would represent such a historic move publicly before the public – it has not occurred to a senior royal in over a century – that it could result in further harm to the image for the royals.
Andrew is also a royal by birth. When he was born in 1960, he was automatically such as the son of a monarch. This would only be changed if a letters patent was issued by the reigning monarch.
The entire procedure could end up being drawn-out, meaning the goal of swiftly resolving the issue – particularly for the monarchy's interests – may not be achieved.
What Are the Implications for Andrew?
Humiliation, probably more than anything else. The announcement represents an substantial reduction of status he has resisted for a long time.
The prince and his former spouse, Sarah, continue to reside in Royal Lodge, despite reported efforts by his brother to encourage Andrew to move out of the 30-room royal residence in the Windsor estate.
While little light has been shed on the precise amount of money the prince has obtained as a result of his status, he remains a wealthy individual. Back in 2007, he managed to raise £15m by selling a home that had been a wedding present from the queen, for example.
What Prompted This?
The continual list of scandals involving Andrew has proved intolerable for the king and other senior royals.
His association with the convicted sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein has again under scrutiny following revelations that the prince stated to him “we are in this together” in a message dispatched months after he claimed to have ended communication.
There have also been reports about his association with a suspected intelligence operative and, recently, excerpts were published from the posthumous memoir 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 undertake a significant trip to see the pontiff next week, when he will become the initial British king since Henry VIII broke from the Catholic Church in 1534 to pray publicly with the pope and leader of Catholicism. He will not have wanted that trip to be marred by further adverse coverage about his brother.
What Has Been the Response?
Although he stated his sister had been “justified” by the decision, Giuffre’s brother Sky Roberts has told the Times that the prince's style ought to be removed for “genuine accountability” to be done.
The republican advocacy organization Republic has additionally stated the action is “insufficient and delayed”, adding: “Andrew remains accused of sexual misconduct and abuse of office. He should be divested of all titles and his military position and should face a criminal investigation. Refraining from using silly medieval titles is not a punishment that matches the accusations.”
