Prince Andrew Stripped of Titles, Ordered to Vacate

King Charles has formally stripped his younger brother of the style “His Royal Highness” and all royal titles and ordered him to vacate Royal Lodge; he will henceforth be known as Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor. The move followed renewed outrage over Andrew’s friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and allegations in Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir that she was trafficked and abused. The scandal reignited scrutiny after his 2019 BBC interview, leaked emails and further research by historian Andrew Lownie; Andrew has denied wrongdoing and reportedly settled Giuffre’s 2022 civil claim without admitting liability. Buckingham Palace cited “serious lapses of judgment,” expressed sympathy for victims and said the censures were necessary “notwithstanding” his denials. Commentators warn the action could presage more disclosures or legal action, including possible private prosecutions. Observers say the episode has deep reputational consequences for the royal family amid polling that shows public support for the monarchy slipping below 50 percent.