Prince Andrew Stripped of Titles, Ordered to Leave Royal Residence

King Charles III of the United Kingdom has announced the removal of his younger brother, Prince Andrew—second son of the late Queen Elizabeth—from his royal title “Duke of York” along with other honorary royal titles. He has also been instructed to vacate the Royal Lodge at Windsor Castle.

According to a BBC report on Friday (October 31), the decision comes amid intense criticism over Andrew’s close relationship with the late U.S. financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and his alleged behavior.

Earlier this month, Andrew himself announced that he would step down from his royal title “Duke of York” and other honorary royal distinctions.

Prince Andrew has faced allegations of association with Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted for human trafficking and sexual abuse of minors.

Several years ago, a woman named Virginia Giuffre filed a case in a U.S. court, claiming that she was sexually abused by Prince Andrew in 2001, when she was only 17 years old. Giuffre later died, with her family claiming that she took her own life due to the mental stress of fighting against sexual abuse.

Pressure on Buckingham Palace to take action against Prince Andrew increased following the allegations of his association with Epstein.

In a statement on Thursday, Buckingham Palace said that King Charles III has formally initiated the process to remove Prince Andrew’s titles, honors, and privileges. He has also been given official notice to vacate the Royal Lodge.

The statement further mentions that Andrew will move to a private residence at the Sandringham Estate, with the expenses for this residence to be covered by King Charles.

Buckingham Palace said these measures are deemed necessary, although Prince Andrew denies the allegations against him. The King and Queen expressed sympathy for the victims.