UK Plans Remove Prince Andrew Vice-Admiral Rank Following Epstein Scandal

The UK government, under the guidance of King Charles III, is moving to strip Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, of his last remaining honorary military rank of vice-admiral. This follows his relinquishment of other military titles in 2022 amid mounting public and royal pressure due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and allegations from Virginia Giuffre, which Andrew denies. Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is working on the removal of this rank, reflecting the King's wishes to distance the royal institution from Andrew. Andrew's naval rank, awarded in 2015, is the final military honor he retains after being stripped of his princely title and other privileges. The government is also considering whether Andrew should lose his military medals, though no decision has been announced yet. This action is part of a broader effort by the monarchy and government to address the scandal and express solidarity with abuse victims.