King Charles formally removes Andrew’s honours and residence, leaving him with only minimal royal status.
King Charles has officially stripped Andrew of all his royal titles and honours, marking a firm and unusual move by the monarch. Buckingham Palace confirmed that the Duke of York will now be known simply as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor and will leave his long-time home, Royal Lodge, for private accommodation.
The decision follows growing public criticism over Andrew’s occupancy of the 30-room Windsor mansion, which he reportedly rented for a symbolic “peppercorn” rate.
Despite losing his royal status, Andrew keeps two remaining privileges. He remains eighth in line to the throne and technically holds the title of Counsellor of State. However, a 2022 legal reform prevents non-working royals from exercising that role, meaning both Andrew and the Duke of Sussex are effectively barred from official duties. The Royal Family’s website clarifies that only active working members are ever called upon to serve in that capacity.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the style, titles and honours of Prince Andrew. Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease, and he will move to alternative private accommodation.”
The move, backed by senior royals including Prince William, comes after years of controversy surrounding Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein. He will now relocate to a private residence on the King’s Sandringham estate, with his living costs personally covered by the King. Sarah Ferguson, who shared the Royal Lodge with Andrew, will not be rehoused.
