This is more troubling embarrassment for the Royal Family as once again Prince Andrew’s character and dubious associations hit the headlines.
There are now further details about his relationship with Virginia Giuffre and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein in the posthumous publication of Ms Giuffre’s memoir.
We’ve heard a lot of this before, but Ms Giuffre’s description of the “entitled” prince thinking it was his “birthright” to sleep with her, makes for uncomfortable reading.
And it comes just days after an email was published suggesting the Duke of York was in touch with Epstein after he’d supposedly cut all ties.
Could Andrew be stripped of Duke of York title?
Prince Andrew’s name is synonymous with royal scandal, and each bombshell brings further pain for the King.
The Duke of York isn’t a working royal, doesn’t attend official events, and is rarely seen in public. He’s been stripped of his duties and patronages, but is this enough?
Andrew’s denials, inconsistencies and questionable acquaintances continue to cast a shadow over the rest of his family.
The Prince of Wales could barely look at his uncle, when he very visibly appeared at the recent funeral of the Duchess of Kent.
What to do with Prince Andrew is the perennial problem for the Palace.
He could have his Duke of York title taken away, but it’s not a straightforward or simple process.
The title was bestowed by his mother, the late Queen, and only parliament can remove it.
He is also a Knight of the Garter, the highest order of chivalry.
Andrew was banned from taking part in the public procession, but it is a significant and historic role, and again an honour granted by the monarch.
It would be up to the King to remove him, and while it’s not impossible, it would be highly unusual.
Read more:
Andrew named in latest Epstein files
Prince Harry denies ‘physical fight’ with Duke of York
Virginia Giuffre settlement: What we know
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Could Andrew miss Sandringham gathering?
There’s long been talk of taking away his huge home – Royal Lodge – on the Windsor estate. But that’s tied up in a complicated lease.
Other steps are an easier option. It’s unlikely Andrew will be invited to Sandringham for the traditional Royal Family Christmas gathering.
This happened last year, following the Chinese spy scandal. Could he be banned from Balmoral too?
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Just two weeks ago, the duke’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, was caught up in her own scandal with an email to Jeffrey Epstein.
Most of her charities cut ties with her following the revelations.
Andrew’s fall from grace is a never-ending saga.
By association, his damaged reputation slowly harms the house of Windsor too.
