Breaking royal news: Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, once known as the Duke of York, is set to lose his honorary naval title of vice-admiral. This decision, supported by King Charles, marks an effort to close a turbulent chapter linked to Andrew’s association with the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed on BBC One that ministers are working alongside King Charles to remove this last vestige of Andrew’s military honours. This follows the recent removal of his royal title and eviction from the Royal Lodge, signalling a significant shift in the royal landscape.
King Charles is laying down the law, ensuring the monarchy distances itself from past scandals. But what about Andrew’s military medals? Healey mentioned they recognise his personal service, and any decisions there will remain aligned with the King’s wishes.
Andrew’s connections with Epstein have come under renewed scrutiny following memoirs released by Virginia Giuffre, who claims she was coerced into intimate encounters with Andrew. These allegations have been consistently denied by Andrew.
Emails reveal their correspondence, including a 2010 exchange where Andrew discussed visiting Epstein in New York, a decision he later admitted was misguided. Andrew and Epstein were even seen together in Central Park the same year.
After Guiffre filed a civil case three years ago, Andrew relinquished most of his military titles, yet retained the vice-admiral honour until now. Having served in the navy from 1979 to 2001, including during the Falklands War as a helicopter pilot, he has since relied on his navy pension of about £20,000 annually.
With Buckingham Palace’s recent moves, Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge for Sandringham accommodation isn’t expected until after Christmas. His absence at the festive royal gathering at Sandringham will undoubtedly mark a new era for the family.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.