Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Asked to Give Up City of London Title

The City of London Corporation has extended an invitation to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to voluntarily surrender the Freedom of the City, a title he inherited through his father’s legacy. This honor, granted in 2012, was awarded “by virtue of patrimony” as Prince Philip was a Freeman. Despite recent pressure to revoke it, the CLC maintains that the title cannot be rescinded without formal action.

King Charles III stripped Andrew of his royal titles and honors last year following revelations about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted pedophile. The incident sparked renewed calls for the Freedom of the City to be withdrawn, but the CLC emphasized that patrimony-based appointments are not subject to reversal. A spokesperson stated: “Elected members have agreed to send a letter to Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor, requesting he formally relinquish the Freedom.”

“We will review his response at a later meeting and decide on next steps,” the spokesperson added. “There is no established legal process to remove this specific honor, as it was granted through family connection.”

Historical Context and Public Figures

The Freedom of the City, historically allowing recipients to walk sheep over London Bridge without tariffs, has been held by notable figures such as Sir Lenny Henry and Cate Blanchett. The CLC’s decision to invite Andrew to resign his title highlights the tension between inherited privileges and public scrutiny.

In February, Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misuse of public office after emails linked to the Epstein case suggested he might have shared confidential trade information. He was released after 11 hours in custody and has denied any wrongdoing. The BBC London team invites listeners to engage via their platforms and submit story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.