Why Prince Andrew is Giving Up His Official Honors – and the Implications for the Monarchy
Through a announcement issued by Buckingham Palace, the king's brother has confirmed that he will be giving up his official honors, such as the Duke of York. Below are the details of what has been revealed – and what wasn't.
What Has the Prince Said?
After previously stepped down as a active member of the monarchy in 2019, the prince has currently chosen to “go a step further” and agree not to use the “honor or the honours which have been conferred upon” him.
However, he used the statement to make a point of rejecting – as he has always done – the accusations of sexual impropriety leveled at him; even though after settling a substantial sum to settle the civil sexual assault case filed by Virginia Giuffre – a settlement in which he admitted no liability and strongly rejected any claims of wrongdoing.
There has existed persistent pressure toward the royal institution regarding the claims involving the prince – especially since his ill-fated television appearance with Emily Maitlis in 2019. He presently states he is acting to protect his relatives from additional harm resulting from media scrutiny.
Did the Monarch Stripped Him of His Titles?
No. And although this could be dismissed as a mere formality, it holds importance in two respects: initially, it enables the prince to publicly claim to have behaved with integrity in support of the crown. As he said in his statement: “I have chosen, as I always have, to prioritize my obligations to my family and country first.”
Second, although he consented not to use it, Andrew retains his ducal title, along with the titles the Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh and the prestigious Garter role as a member of the prestigious order. Like the HRH His Royal Highness title, they essentially become dormant.
He continues to be royalty and eighth in the line of succession. In theory, he remains a potential stand-in for the monarch – and may deputize for the sovereign if he is overseas or unwell. Although royal officials has made clear that, realistically, he would not be asked to perform these duties.
Nonetheless, it is telling that Andrew’s statement indicated this choice was made “following talks with the king”. It appears highly likely 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 revoke a ducal title would require legislative action, and would constitute such a historic move in full view of the public – it has not occurred to a high-ranking royal in more than 100 years – that it would likely result in further harm to the image for the royals.
Andrew is also still a prince. When he was born in 1960, he became as the son of a monarch. This would only be altered if a letters patent was issued by the king.
The whole process could end up being protracted, implying the goal of swiftly resolving the matter – at least for the monarchy's interests – would not necessarily be achieved.
What Does It Mean for the Prince?
Embarrassment, likely above all. The announcement signifies an substantial reduction of status he has fought against for a long time.
He and his ex-wife, Sarah, continue to reside in their Windsor residence, notwithstanding reported efforts by the king to persuade his brother to move out of the 30-room royal residence in Windsor Great Park.
Although limited information has been revealed about the precise amount of money the prince has obtained as a result of his position, he remains a person of means. Back in 2007, he was able to raise £15m from the sale of a property that had been a wedding present from the queen, as an instance.
Why Now?
The seemingly endless series of controversies related to the prince has become unacceptable for the monarch and other high-ranking family members.
His friendship with the convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is once again in the headlines after it emerged that the prince stated to him “we are in this together” in an email dispatched months after he claimed to have ceased contact.
Additionally, there were stories about his association with a suspected Chinese spy and, this week, excerpts were published from the posthumous memoir of Giuffre, who took her own life in April. She alleged the prince “believed that having sex with me was his birthright”.
Furthermore, the king is due to make a historic visit to see the pontiff next week, when he will become the first English monarch since Henry VIII split with Rome in 1534 to worship openly with the pope and leader of Catholicism. He will not have wanted that trip to be overshadowed by more negative headlines about Andrew.
What Was the Reaction?
Although he stated his sister had been “justified” by the decision, her sibling Sky Roberts has told a newspaper that the prince's style ought to be removed for “true justice” to be achieved.
The republican advocacy organization Republic has additionally stated the move is “insufficient and delayed”, adding: “Andrew remains accused of sexual offences and misuse of position. He ought to be divested of every honor and his navy rank and should face a legal probe. Not using archaic honors is not a punishment that matches the accusations.”
