Prince Andrew to Keep Freedom of London Honour Despite Epstein Controversy
Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is set to retain one of his few remaining honours - the Freedom of the City of London - despite ongoing scrutiny over his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The former royal, who has lost nearly all his titles in recent years, received this ceremonial distinction in 2012 through inheritance rights from his father, Prince Philip.
Legal Right Prevents Removal of Honour
The City of London Corporation has concluded its investigation into whether the honour could be withdrawn, determining that removal is legally impossible. A spokesperson confirmed to the Daily Mail that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor obtained the Freedom "by virtue of patrimony," meaning it was inherited as the child of a Freeman and constitutes a legal right that cannot be revoked.
"Applications via patrimony are not considered by our elected members," the spokesperson stated. "We have carefully considered whether it is possible to remove a Freedom granted by patrimony and understand that we are not able to do so."
Historical Significance and Modern Recipients
The Freedom of the City of London dates back to 1237 and serves as recognition for outstanding contributions to public life. This ceremonial title grants recipients the unusual privilege of being able to walk sheep across London Bridge, a tradition famously observed by television presenter Michael Portillo with other Freemen in 2019.
Typically, the honour is awarded to individuals nominated by Corporation councillors. Recent recipients include:
- Comedian Sir Lenny Henry
- Actress Cate Blanchett
- Choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne
- Boxer Frank Bruno
- England footballer Harry Kane
- Musician Ronnie Wood
Broader Royal Consequences and Legal Troubles
This retention contrasts sharply with Andrew's broader loss of royal privileges. In October, King Charles III initiated formal proceedings to strip his brother of royal titles, styles, and honours following intensified examination of his Epstein connections. The disgraced financier's association with the royal has prompted widespread condemnation and institutional responses.
Further complicating matters, Andrew was arrested last month on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Authorities allege he shared sensitive information with Epstein during his tenure as a trade envoy. The investigation involved eleven hours of custody and searches at both his Sandringham Estate residence in Norfolk and his former home at Royal Lodge in Windsor.
Throughout these developments, the 66-year-old prince, who remains eighth in line to the throne, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. His father Prince Philip, whose Freeman status enabled Andrew's inheritance of the London honour, passed away in April 2021 at Windsor Castle aged 99.
