The Royal Conundrum: Can Prince William Strip Andrew of His HRH Title?

The question of Prince Andrew's titles, particularly his HRH (His Royal Highness) status, continues to be a thorny issue for the British monarchy. With King Charles III now on the throne and Prince William next in line, royal watchers and experts alike are pondering the extent of their powers to address this sensitive matter.

Following Andrew's removal from official duties and his military affiliations due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein and a civil sexual assault lawsuit, his HRH style remains, albeit largely unused.

According to royal expert Gareth Russell, while King Charles III holds the primary authority to make such a significant change, Prince William's influence as the future monarch is considerable.

Russell highlights that the power to strip a royal of their HRH style ultimately rests with the sovereign. This means that if such a decision were to be made, it would need the King's explicit approval and action.

However, Russell also points out a critical nuance: the title 'Prince' itself is an inherited dignity and cannot be removed in the same way.

What can be removed is the 'HRH' style, which signifies a working royal and grants certain privileges and public status. Andrew was stripped of his military titles and patronages by Queen Elizabeth II in January 2022, and he ceased using his HRH style in public and official capacities.

The current situation is complex because Andrew's HRH status was essentially 'deactivated' rather than formally rescinded.

He still technically holds the style, but he is prevented from using it. This distinction is crucial, as a formal removal would require an even more definitive and public declaration, likely from the monarch.

Prince William, as the Prince of Wales, undoubtedly plays a significant role in advising the King on matters concerning the future of the monarchy.

His increasing influence means that his views on Prince Andrew's status would carry substantial weight. However, he cannot unilaterally remove the HRH title himself. Any such move would be a collective decision, sanctioned by the reigning sovereign, likely after consultation with senior members of the Royal Family.

The debate surrounding Andrew's titles underscores the monarchy's ongoing efforts to modernize and adapt to public expectations while upholding centuries of tradition.

The move to restrict his public use of the HRH style was widely seen as a necessary step to protect the institution's reputation. Whether a full, formal stripping of the HRH title will occur remains to be seen, but it would undoubtedly be a decision with far-reaching implications for the Royal Family.