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The former Duke of York loses his naval title while the monarch aims to conclude the ongoing scandal regarding his brother's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Stripping of Honors Underway

Andrew Mountbatten Windsor faces removal of his honorary rank of vice-admiral, which he was granted in 2015 and had retained even after relinquishing other armed forces roles in 2022.

The defense minister announced on Sunday that ministers were working with the king to remove his naval honours.

"In general, the administration follows the rulings and determinations the king has made. In defence, it's precisely identical," the defense secretary said.

Further Repercussions

When questioned about the former duke could lose his military medals as well, the minister answered that they were "awards recognizing his military career" and added: "There's no current information on that, but similar to his vice-admiral rank, we would be guided by the judgments the king makes."

Background Context

Mountbatten Windsor has been facing fresh examination over his relationship with Epstein following the publication of posthumous memoirs by Virginia Giuffre, who claims she was compelled into sexual encounters with Andrew on three occasions, including when she was a teenager.

Newly released emails reveal that the ex-royal wrote to Epstein in 2010 after the latter was released from jail on allegations involving sex trafficking.

In the correspondence made public recently, the convicted sex offender suggested that Andrew meet former JP Morgan executive Jes Staley, who was banned from the UK banking sector for life in June for deceiving regulators about his connections to Epstein.

Naval Career

Andrew was a member of the navy for over 20 years, including as a aircraft commander during the Falklands war. After a civil case was initiated three years ago, he ceased utilizing most of his military titles but retained the rank of naval commander.

The navy pension is his only current source of official earnings after his service from 1979 and 2001, reportedly totaling £20,000 a year.

Latest Changes

Buckingham Palace formally announced last week he would lose the titles of prince and Duke of York, as well as being required to vacate his residence at Royal Lodge and relocate to private accommodation in Sandringham.

Royal staff had worked with civil servants in the Cabinet Office to avoid the decision having to be approved by lawmakers, eventually agreeing that the king should remove the title entirely using his monarchical authority.

Although the loss of his titles takes effect right away, the ex-royal is not anticipated to vacate Royal Lodge until after Christmas, meaning he will not be present when the royals gather at Sandringham for the festive season.