The City of London Corporation (CLC) has approved a process to remove Prince Andrew's Freedom of the City of London honor, a decision to be made as a matter of urgency after the Duke of York refused to surrender it. The CLC previously stated that Andrew's association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was 'wholly unacceptable and inconsistent' with the status and obligations of a Freeman of the City of London.
The CLC's Court of Common Council, its main decision-making body, approved the new process, which allows for the removal of the honor from individuals. This move followed a legal review that found no prior effective lawful method to revoke such an honor. Under the new procedure, each case will be considered on its individual circumstances and in accordance with the law. The individual will be informed and given an opportunity to make written representations before a final decision is reached.
Andrew inherited the Freedom of the City of London in 2012 through patrimony, as the son of Prince Philip, who was awarded the freedom in 1948. In May, the CLC passed a motion of censure against Andrew for failing to respond to their request to relinquish the honor, expressing 'profound disappointment.' The court's motion highlighted concerns over his well-publicized association with Epstein and his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, stating it was inconsistent with his status as a Freeman.
Chris Hayward, CLC's policy chairman, stated that the approved process ensures that future decisions are taken fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the law, with appropriate safeguards. He confirmed that the process will now be followed urgently for Prince Andrew's case.
The Freedom of the City of London is a ceremonial honor, dating back to at least 1237, which traditionally allows recipients to walk sheep over London Bridge. It is typically awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to public life. Recent recipients include comedian Sir Lenny Henry, actress Cate Blanchett, and footballer Harry Kane.
Prince Andrew has been the subject of investigations related to his association with Epstein. In February, he was questioned on suspicion of misconduct in public office for allegedly sharing sensitive information with Epstein. The investigation was later widened to include sex trafficking allegations. Andrew settled a civil lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she had sex with him when she was 17. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
In late 2025, King Charles III stripped Andrew of his military titles and royal patronages, and he was also barred from using the title 'His Royal Highness' in an official capacity. He remains eighth in line to the throne.