Shamed former royal, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has neglected a request to surrender one of his few remaining honors, facing imminent formal reprimand. Despite being stripped of all royal titles last October, he still holds the Freedom of the City of London.
This honor was bestowed on him in 2012 through inheritance from his late father, Prince Philip, who was a Freeman of London. The City of London Corporation recently contacted Mountbatten-Windsor, urging him to relinquish the honor, as it cannot be forcibly taken away.
However, it has come to light that he has not responded to the Corporation’s letter, prompting elected members to proceed with a motion of censure at the upcoming Court of Common Council meeting on May 21. The Corporation spokesperson confirmed the lack of a legal means to revoke the Freedom, expressing solidarity with victims of sexual abuse.
The Freedom of the City of London is mainly symbolic, traditionally granted to nominees of corporation councillors, dating back to 1237. Noteworthy recipients in recent times include Major Tim Peake and Sir Lenny Henry, with the privilege extending to leading sheep over London Bridge.
All of Andrew’s siblings, including the King, hold the same honor. Andrew’s recent arrest on suspicion of public office misconduct has raised discussions about removing him from the line of succession. Allegations linking him to Jeffrey Epstein’s illicit activities have further tarnished his reputation.
Despite the ongoing controversies, Andrew denies any wrongdoing and has not been formally charged. The decision to potentially alter the line of succession reflects the ongoing scrutiny surrounding his involvement with Epstein.