London: Britain’s King Charles III has initiated the formal process to strip Prince Andrew of his titles, resulting in Andrew’s relocation from his Windsor home to Sandringham in Norfolk, eastern England. Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Andrew has agreed to vacate Royal Lodge as controversies surrounding his connections to Jeffrey Epstein persist.
According to Ghana News Agency, although Andrew denies the accusations, Buckingham Palace acknowledges that there have been “serious lapses of judgment.” A palace statement conveyed that Prince Andrew will now be referred to as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. His lease on Royal Lodge, which previously afforded him legal protection to reside there, has been officially terminated, necessitating his move to alternative private accommodation. The palace emphasized that these measures are essential, despite Andrew’s continued denial of the allegations against him.
The palace statement further expressed that Their Majesties extend their thoughts and deepest sympathies to the victims and survivors of all forms of abuse. While King Charles initiated the formal removal of Andrew’s titles and honors, it is understood that Andrew did not oppose the decision. Prince William and the wider royal family are reportedly supportive of the king’s actions.
The monarchy faced mounting pressure to address the issue surrounding Prince Andrew, particularly after King Charles was confronted by a protester earlier this week. Recent revelations have rekindled public interest in Andrew’s ties to Epstein, following the release of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoirs and documents from Epstein’s estate by the US government. Giuffre alleges that she was coerced into sexual encounters with Andrew, including incidents at Ghislaine Maxwell’s home in London, Epstein’s Manhattan residence, and his private island, Little St James, when she was 17 years old.
Despite vehemently denying all allegations, Andrew has been formally notified to surrender the lease at Royal Lodge. His relocation to Sandringham is expected to occur “as soon as practicable.” King Charles is also expected to ensure “appropriate private provision” for Andrew during this transition. Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will also vacate Royal Lodge and manage her own living arrangements.