Poll shows rising public demand to remove Duke’s royal status
Prince Andrew has suffered another setback as a new poll reveals that most Britons believe he should lose all remaining royal titles and status.
The Duke of York, who drew from public duties in 2019 over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, faces fresh criticism following a damning biography about him and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. The book describes Andrew as a “useful idiot” and claims he misused taxpayer-funded overseas trade trips for private business, while also accepting questionable gifts and loans from wealthy associates.
The survey shows 67 per cent of respondents support removing his Duke of York title and stripping him of his status as a prince — a rise of five points from three years ago. A separate YouGov poll found only five per cent of Britons now hold a positive view of the late Queen’s second son.
Parliament would need to pass legislation to remove the Duke of York title, while a Letters Patent from the King would be required to strip him of his princely status. Andrew stopped using his “His Royal Highness” style after his infamous Newsnight interview, but it remains officially his unless formally revoked.
Palace insiders say William, with the King’s blessing, has been given authority to impose “non-negotiable rules” on his uncle to end what they call the “destructive dysfunction” surrounding him. Andrew is reportedly being advised to remain in the UK and avoid public appearances that could reignite public anger.
The late Queen stripped Andrew of his military titles and royal patronages in 2019 following the sexual assault case against him and the outcry over his friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein — allegations he has consistently denied.