Prince William and Princess Kate have been credited with significantly influencing the decision to remove Andrew’s titles.
On October 30, a statement from King Charles announced that Andrew would no longer hold the title of prince.
“His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew,” stated the announcement.
“His lease on Royal Lodge has, to date, provided him with legal protection to continue in residence. Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation.
“These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him.”
Although the statement attributed the decision to the King, sources indicate that the Prince and Princess of Wales played a significant role in the outcome.
A source informed Vanity Fair that “William believes passionately in the future of the monarchy, and he knows that it is at a crucial point.
“He was very involved in the decision to have Andrew formally stripped of his titles. While the king has taken the credit, William and his wife actually have played a crucial role behind the scenes.”
A family friend also conveyed: “William was the hand on his father’s back. He has been instrumental in the whole thing. Kate has been very firm too. They both made it clear that Andrew cannot be anywhere near them in Windsor.”
Previously residing at Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate for over two decades, Andrew is now set to relocate to the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. The exact timing of this move remains uncertain.
During the summer, the Wales family moved to Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park with their three children.
While on a recent visit to Brazil, Prince William, the next in line for the throne, was indirectly questioned about his uncle’s situation.
In an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, she remarked: “Given the fact there’s been a lot of change in your own family recently, you yourself have talked about this change. Just talk about that a little bit. Where do you see the change? What do you think needs to happen?”
The Prince of Wales responded: “I think the Earthshot Prize is a classic example of change. Rather than talk about it, we’re doing it. That’s where I want it to be.”
Kensington Palace has been approached for comment.