Palace move wins praise and may double as a warning for Harry
Buckingham Palace has set out a formal process to strip Andrew of his style, titles and honours, confirming he will be known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The late-night statement marked one of the clearest signs yet that the King is prepared to act to safeguard the institution.
PR strategist Renae Smith told Express that Charles has shown he is a doer as well as a talker, and more decisive than many assumed. Breaking with the old “keep calm and carry on” approach, she said the King opted for something firmer, cleaner and more modern.
The timing also lets the Palace take control of the narrative amid ongoing scrutiny of Andrew’s links to the Epstein case. By moving first, the royal household avoids being bounced into action by public outcry.
Smith suggested this firmness could have wider implications. If Harry and Meghan Markle continue to criticise senior royals in public, a monarch willing to make uncomfortable decisions may not hesitate to respond.
Beyond the immediate headlines, the decision signals what Charles wants his reign to look like: measured, strategic and willing to put the Crown’s long-term health ahead of sentiment. For supporters, it is proof the King won’t simply talk about reform. He will act when he thinks the monarchy needs it.
