In a constitutional earthquake that could reshape the relationship between Parliament and the monarchy, MPs are considering groundbreaking legislation that would grant them the power to strip royal titles through parliamentary vote.
The proposed bill, set to be debated in the House of Commons, specifically targets Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, and comes amid mounting public anger over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Public Outcry Meets Parliamentary Action
A recent YouGov poll reveals overwhelming public support for removing Prince Andrew's ducal title, with 63% of Britons backing the move. This widespread sentiment appears to be translating into concrete political action.
The legislation would establish a mechanism allowing MPs to debate and vote on whether an individual should be permitted to retain their royal title—a power that currently rests almost entirely with the monarch.
Constitutional Uncharted Territory
This unprecedented move places the Palace in a delicate position, potentially forcing the King to confront parliamentary will regarding his brother's status.
Legal experts describe the proposal as entering "constitutional uncharted territory," challenging centuries of royal prerogative and tradition.
Mounting Pressure on the Royal Family
The push for parliamentary intervention reflects growing frustration with the pace of internal royal reforms and the perceived inadequacy of previous measures taken against Prince Andrew.
Since settling a civil sexual assault case in 2022, the Duke of York has been stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages but has retained his title despite stepping back from public duties.
This new legislative effort signals that many MPs believe stronger action is necessary to maintain public confidence in the monarchy.
