Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, allegedly had a “physical altercation” with Vice-Admiral Sir Tony Johnstone-Burt, one of Queen Elizabeth II’s most senior aides, according to a new book by royal author Robert Hardman.
The incident reportedly occurred when Sir Tony informed Andrew that he could not host a Pitch@Palace event at Buckingham Palace due to a scheduling conflict. A senior staff member described the altercation as a “kinetic” blow that caused astonishment within the royal household.
Sir Tony, who has been Master of the Household since 2013 and continues in the role under King Charles III, is said to have reported the incident to the Lord Chamberlain, Lord Peel. Lord Peel then raised the matter with the then Prince Charles, who allegedly spoke to his brother about it.
The book also recounts another alleged incident at Windsor, where Andrew reportedly revved his car engine aggressively and shouted at a groom from the Royal Mews. The former duke is said to have demanded the groom’s name and later raised the matter with the late Queen.
Hardman’s book further details anger within the household when Andrew went against advice to record his infamous 2019 Newsnight interview about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Lord Peel reportedly said Andrew “had an overriding belief that he was better than the rest of us.”
Andrew was stripped of his military roles and HRH title in January 2022, shortly before settling a legal dispute with Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was assaulted by him. Buckingham Palace and Andrew have been contacted for comment.
