Andrew Mountbatten Windsor is set to face a new reality following King Charles III’s decision to revoke his royal titles. This change means that Andrew will now have to show deference to his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Royal biographer Robert Hardman discussed the implications of this decision on the Daily Mail’s Palace Confidential show, describing the revocation of Andrew’s titles as classifying him similarly to “war criminals and enemies of state.”
Under traditional royal protocol, Andrew, now a private citizen, is required to bow to members of the royal family who retain their titles. Hardman confirmed, “Yes, he probably will,” when asked if Andrew would bow to his daughters. He noted that Andrew is unlikely to approach this situation with enthusiasm, as he will now be publicly referred to as simply Andrew, foregoing the prince title he once held.
The King’s decision, which has received parliamentary and governmental approval, was made after consultations with the highest levels of government. Hardman referred to King Charles as “the fountain of justice,” emphasizing that this action was taken with considerable thought and deliberation.
According to official statements from the Palace, Andrew has lost his HRH style, his dukedom, and significant titles, including those of Knight of the Garter and Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. Following mounting public and political pressure related to his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Andrew has also been formally ordered to vacate the Royal Lodge.
Despite the serious nature of these changes, Hardman assured that the King’s decision will not negatively impact Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. He clarified that they retain their royal titles because they are the children of a reigning monarch. “They are still Princesses and HRH,” he stated, emphasizing their upright lives and positive public personas.
Looking ahead, it seems unlikely that Beatrice and Eugenie will take on additional royal duties. Instead, they will remain “essentially private citizens who are related to the King and occasionally turn up at royal events.” Their titles are safeguarded under King George V’s 1917 Letters Patent, ensuring their status remains intact despite the turmoil surrounding their father.
This shift in Andrew’s standing within the royal family highlights ongoing discussions about the monarchy’s connection to past controversies and the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between royal duties and personal conduct. The royal family continues to navigate these challenges while aiming to preserve its public image and the integrity of its members.
