Prince Andrew has announced he will relinquish his title as the Duke of York and step down from the Order of the Garter following continued scrutiny over his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a statement Friday, Andrew said the decision was made “in discussion with the King and my family,” acknowledging that ongoing accusations “distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family.”
“I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first,” he said, while continuing to “vigorously deny the accusations.” The move was reportedly made with the support of King Charles and Prince William.
Andrew, who previously stepped back from public duties in 2019, will remain a prince but no longer hold the Duke of York title granted by Queen Elizabeth II. His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will also lose her Duchess of York designation, though their daughters will retain their royal titles.
The decision follows renewed attention ahead of the posthumous release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir, expected to reignite scrutiny over Andrew’s alleged involvement with Epstein. Giuffre, who died earlier this year, had accused the prince of sexual abuse, claims he denies.
Epstein’s victims and supporters called the announcement “a long overdue step toward accountability.”
Sources:
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BBC News – MBFC Rating
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