King Charles III has finalized one of the most decisive disciplinary measures of his reign, formally stripping his brother, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor-formerly the Duke of York-of his royal titles and privileges. Yet despite the loss of honors and his long-time residence at Windsor, Andrew will continue to receive private financial support from the monarch, signaling a blend of accountability and familial loyalty within the royal household.
"His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew," Buckingham Palace stated. "Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor." The palace confirmed that "formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease [of Royal Lodge] and he will move to alternative private accommodation." It further emphasized that "these censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him."
A separate note from the palace underscored the King's broader stance on accountability: "Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse."
According to The Guardian, King Charles has privately authorized a substantial relocation payment and ongoing six-figure allowance for Andrew as he transitions to a new home on the Sandringham estate. Sources describe the arrangement as an effort to maintain financial stability and "prevent overspending in his new life as a commoner." Although Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on specific sums, reports indicate the stipend will significantly exceed Andrew's former £20,000-a-year Navy pension.
The decision follows renewed public scrutiny stemming from the publication of Nobody's Girl, the posthumous memoir connected to Virginia Giuffre. The book revisited the allegations that led to Andrew's 2022 settlement with Giuffre and reignited debate over his conduct. Royal commentators said the public backlash left King Charles little alternative but to formalize the separation.
Emily Nash, royal editor at Hello!, stated: "This is the move that many had called for and the King had to act decisively. It's a marked change from Andrew's statement announcing he would no longer use his Duke of York title, in which he suggested it was his decision." She added that "the Palace had to get it right this time to restore public confidence. The King has made clear that he is calling the shots."
The arrangement amounts to a controlled retreat rather than total exile. Royal insiders suggest the plan ensures Andrew remains within the family's private orbit while ending his official association with the monarchy. The King's financial support is viewed as a safeguard against instability or unwanted publicity that could arise from a complete cutoff.
In a smaller but symbolic matter, Buckingham Palace confirmed that Queen Elizabeth II's corgis-previously cared for by Andrew and Sarah Ferguson-"will remain with the family." The statement did not specify whether Andrew or his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, would assume direct responsibility.
