King Charles has taken the unprecedented step of formally removing Prince Andrew’s royal titles, delivering what one royal commentator called a “hammer” to his brother.
The monarch’s decision affects all of Andrew’s titles, including Prince, Duke of York, Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh, as well as honors such as the Order of the Garter and Knight Grand Cross of the Victorian Order.
This comes as controversy continues to grow over Andrew’s past ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
speaking in Great Britain News ChannelRoyal expert Cameron Walker said: “Of course, this is incredibly significant. The King has begun a formal process to remove the title of Prince, presumably through letters patent.”
Unlike Andrew, his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will keep their titles under rules established by King George V in 1917.
“His daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, retain their titles in accordance with the 1917 letters patent of King George V,” Walker added.
He continued: “Prince Andrew had previously renounced the use of his titles and honors temporarily, but that was not a formal removal, which is what the King is now implementing.
“This is a very strong move by King Charles, delivering a hammer blow to his brother.
“It is unprecedented in living memory for the title of Prince to be formally withdrawn from a member of the Royal Family.
“The long-term resolution will involve the King formally removing the title of Prince through letters patent.
“Prince Andrew will no longer be called Prince Andrew and will instead be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, following controversies surrounding his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein and allegations of sexual assault, which he denies.”
