Following fresh criticism for his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew has declared he will no longer use the title Duke of York or any other royal titles.
Andrew and his family concurred that the continuous accusations against him were taking away from the King and the royal family’s efforts, according to a statement released by Buckingham Palace. He confirmed that he continues to refute the charges made against him.
Honorary distinctions such as membership in the Order of the Garter and the Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order are being relinquished by him. He will, meanwhile, continue to hold the title of prince, which is unassailable under the existing regulations.
Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s ex-wife, will also no longer hold the title of Duchess of York, although their kids, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, will continue to hold it.
The move, which some say is the most drastic formal distancing of a senior royal in modern history, comes after internal discussions with King Charles and other senior royals.