The Royal Family are highly unlikely to use the Duke of York title again after the scandal that has engulfed Prince Andrew, a royal expert has claimed. Amid the scandal surrounding their connection to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will also no longer use the Duchess of York.
The 65-year-old will, however, retain his princely title, as is his birthright as the son of a monarch. Although it was previously thought that Prince Louis could one day take on the title as Duke of York, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams claims the York title may never be used again.
Speaking to the Express, Mr Fitzwilliams shared that it is “highly unlikely” that the York title will be used again.
He said: “Now the title is in abeyance and it is highly unlikely there will be a future Duke of York just as the title Duke of Clarence is likely to be avoided because of the notorious rumours that were associated with its last holder in the 19th Century.”
He also alluded to the ongoing royal feud with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who, despite no longer being working royals, still use their titles as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. He said: “The title of Duke and Duchess of Windsor will certainly be avoided and probably that of Sussex too”.
Andrew’s statement, released around 7pm on October 17, read: “In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family.
“I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life.”
He added: “With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me.”
Alluding to the accusations made by the late Virginia Giuffe, he added: “As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me.”
Although Andrew has made the decision to no longer use his title, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie will still retain their ‘princess’ titles as granddaughters to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
