Rachael Maskell, the Labour MP for York Central, has called for a parliamentary debate on how aristocratic titles linked to geographical locations are assigned and removed. This follows her assertion that Prince Andrew's title as Duke of York is 'untenable' in light of the sexual assault allegations he faces in a US civil case, which he has consistently denied.
During questions to Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg, Maskell cited the 1917 Titles Deprivation Act, which was used during World War One to strip enemies of the UK of their British peerages. She argued that the city of York has a global reputation for its cultural heritage and social values, and that the public should have a say in how such titles are used.
Rees-Mogg acknowledged the 1917 Act as 'extremely interesting' but gave no indication that MPs would be allowed to debate Maskell's proposals. He noted that the award of territorial designations is a matter for the sovereign.
Maskell had previously stated that it was untenable for the Duke of York to retain his title. Earlier this week, York Racecourse applied to rename its annual Duke of York Stakes to better reflect the 19th Century royal after whom the event was originally named. Last week, Buckingham Palace announced that Prince Andrew's military titles and royal patronages had been returned to the Queen.
