On Wednesday night, the council of York voted unanimously in favor of removing the prince’s freedom of the city. This honor was bestowed to Andrew in 1987 when Queen Elizabeth II made her the Duke of York.
Andrew is the first to be stripped from the honor, which is purely ceremonial and dates back to medieval days when “freemen” enjoyed special privileges. The actress Judi Dench, Andrew’s sister, was among the honorees.
Andrew was removed from his honorary military positions in January amid controversy surrounding a lawsuit alleging that he had sex at 17-year-old girl. There were also fears that the scandal might tarnish the House of Windsor. His honorary leadership of several charities, also known as royal patronages was also removed by the queen. He was also prohibited from using “his royal highnes” in official settings.
Andrew settled the case and agreed to pay the accuser an undisclosed amount that British media suggested could reach 12 million pounds ($15,000,000). He denied the allegations.
Darryl Smalley, York City Councilor, stated that the city is following the example of the queen by removing Andrew’s titles.
Smalley said that she saw that the incident was causing serious reputational damage for these military charities and institutions, and therefore intervened to remove him from his positions.” ITV News reported Smalley. “We strongly believe, and many residents are with us, that it is time to remove all connections between our city, Prince Andrew, and other cities.”
Smalley and other leaders from the area have suggested that Andrew should also be stripped of the title of Duke or York.
“York has a wonderful relationship with the monarchy that goes back hundreds of centuries. He said that it was something they treasure. It’s something we can’t treasure while Prince Andrew is our most senior royal.”
