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Through a definitive move, King Charles has formally removed Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his Royal Highness attribute and his title of prince.

The changes were formalized by issuing royal documents under the Great Seal of the Realm, that have been published in the Gazette.

The entry declared: “The king has been pleased by royal instruments under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 3 November 2025 to declare that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor shall cease to be entitled to possess the designation of ‘HRH’ and the titular dignity of ‘Prince of the realm’.”

Another entry confirmed the removal of the dukedom from the roll of peerage, effective immediately.

The notice stated: “His Majesty has been pleased by warrant under his royal sign manual dated 30 October 2025 to direct his secretary of state to ensure the titleholder to be struck from the peerage roll.”

Background of the Decision

This decision follows increasing scrutiny over the former prince's connections to convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir.

The author claimed that she was assaulted by the former prince after being trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein, allegations that Mountbatten Windsor has always strenuously denied.

Procedure of Title Removal

The king utilized his monarchical powers—recognized rights held by the sovereign—following discussions with government advisers, instead of through parliamentary means.

Royal instruments and warrants are instruments of this authority, used to bestow or revoke honors and styles.

Since the Royal Highness designation is granted by such documents, it can be revoked through the same process.

Additional Actions and Backing

After the initial announcement, the lord chancellor was instructed to prepare the necessary documents for the removal of titles.

The decision also includes Andrew giving up his tenancy on Royal Lodge, a thirty-room Crown Estate property where he has resided for two decades.

Officials fully supported the king's decision.

Exception

In spite of the loss of titles, it was announced that Andrew will retain his South Atlantic medal, awarded for his service as a Sea King helicopter co-pilot during the Falklands conflict.