Public Pressure Mounts: 67% of Britons Now Call for Prince Andrew to Be Stripped of His Titles

In the ever-shifting landscape of the British monarchy, public opinion often acts as both a mirror and a catalyst for change. And right now, the reflection is not flattering for Prince Andrew, Duke of York.

A new YouGov poll reveals that 67% of Britons believe Prince Andrew should be stripped of his remaining royal titles — an increase from 62% recorded just three years ago. This growing wave of disapproval signals more than just a statistical uptick; it represents a potential turning point in the monarchy’s ongoing struggle to balance tradition with accountability.

From Duke of York to Public Controversy

Once a celebrated figure in the Royal Family for his military service and charitable work, Prince Andrew’s public standing has suffered a steep decline over the past few years. The source of much of this controversy lies in his well-documented association with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, whose criminal history has left a stain on all connected to him.

Although Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has not faced criminal charges, his relationship with Epstein — and the allegations that followed — have made him a lightning rod for public criticism. His 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, intended as a chance to clear his name, instead sparked widespread backlash, with many viewers finding his responses evasive or lacking in empathy toward victims.

The Current Titles in Question

Following the fallout from the Epstein scandal, Prince Andrew already saw a significant portion of his public duties and affiliations removed. In January 2022, he was stripped of his honorary military titles and royal patronages, with Buckingham Palace confirming that he would no longer use the style “His Royal Highness” in any official capacity.

However, Andrew still retains the title “Duke of York” — a hereditary honor granted by Queen Elizabeth II on his wedding day in 1986. He also holds the style of Prince, by virtue of being born to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

The current debate focuses on whether these remaining titles should also be removed, fully severing his formal connection to the monarchy’s symbolic prestige.

Why Public Sentiment Is Growing

The shift in public opinion is not simply a result of fading patience. Several key factors have amplified calls for further action:

Lingering Association with Epstein – Despite legal settlements and denials, the public perception of Andrew remains heavily influenced by his past friendship with Epstein.

Transparency and Trust – Modern audiences expect public figures, especially royals supported by taxpayer funds, to uphold higher ethical standards. The perception that Andrew has avoided full accountability fuels frustration.

Cultural Shift in Accountability – Movements advocating for victims’ voices and institutional reform have heightened scrutiny toward those in positions of power.

Media Coverage – From investigative reports to tabloid headlines, coverage of the scandal has ensured it remains a part of the public consciousness.

What Would It Take to Remove His Titles?

Stripping a royal of their hereditary titles is not a simple process. Legal experts note that it would require either parliamentary legislation or a direct royal decree. The process would also set a precedent with potentially far-reaching consequences, as it touches upon constitutional tradition and the balance of powers between the monarchy and the government.

Historically, such removals have been rare. One notable example is the Titles Deprivation Act of 1917, passed during World War I, which stripped German-affiliated royals of their British titles. The modern-day application of such a measure would be unprecedented in recent memory.

The Monarchy’s Delicate Balancing Act

For King Charles III, who assumed the throne in September 2022, the question of his younger brother’s titles presents a delicate challenge. On one hand, retaining Andrew’s titles risks further alienating a public that increasingly demands transparency and accountability from its institutions. On the other, taking decisive action could spark debates about fairness, due process, and the political implications of royal decisions.

It is worth noting that within royal circles, there is often a preference for allowing controversies to fade naturally over time. But with polls showing a significant majority in favor of title removal, this may not be a controversy that quietly disappears.

The Duke of York and His Legacy

Beyond the political and legal complexities, there is the question of legacy — both for Andrew personally and for the institution he represents. Titles in the British monarchy carry more than ceremonial weight; they are markers of history, lineage, and public trust.

For the people of York, the connection is symbolic but significant. Some local representatives have already voiced discomfort over their city’s association with the Duke, suggesting that the title no longer reflects the values they wish to promote.

The Road Ahead

Whether or not the monarchy or Parliament acts on public sentiment remains to be seen. However, the increase from 62% to 67% in just three years is a clear signal: this is an issue gaining traction, not losing it.

Observers predict that the matter could resurface during key moments — such as state events, major anniversaries, or new revelations in the ongoing Epstein-related investigations. In the era of instant news and viral social media campaigns, even a single incident could reignite calls for action.

A Broader Question About the Monarchy’s Future

While the focus today is on Prince Andrew, the deeper conversation revolves around the monarchy’s ability to adapt to modern expectations. Can it retain its mystique while also holding its members to the same standards of conduct expected of other public figures? Or will the institution’s reliance on tradition increasingly clash with the evolving values of the people it serves?

The handling of Andrew’s titles could offer insight into how King Charles and future monarchs will navigate such dilemmas. Will they prioritize public opinion over personal loyalty? Will they act decisively or opt for gradual distancing?

Conclusion

The latest poll data is more than just numbers on a chart; it’s a measure of trust, patience, and evolving expectations. For Prince Andrew, the road to rehabilitating his public image appears steep, if not impossible. For the monarchy, the choice between preserving tradition and responding to public sentiment is one that will shape its path forward.

Whether or not the Duke of York title remains his in the years ahead, one thing is clear: the court of public opinion has delivered its verdict, and it is growing louder with each passing year.