Removing Prince Andrew from royal duties is far more complicated than a simple decision within the UK. According to legal experts, the process would likely require the involvement of Papua New Guinea, one of the Commonwealth realms where the British monarch remains head of state. This is because the Duke of York holds titles that extend beyond the United Kingdom, linked to multiple independent countries that recognize the monarchy.
Any attempt to “get rid” of Prince Andrew in an official capacity would mean navigating the legal and constitutional frameworks of these nations. The Duke’s royal status, including the use of his “Prince” title and military affiliations, is granted not only by the UK but also by other realms like Papua New Guinea. Therefore, formal removal might necessitate cooperation and agreement from these governments to ensure the Duke is stripped of his titles in their jurisdictions as well.
This complex network of agreements highlights the intricacies of royal titles and the constitutional sovereignty of Commonwealth realms. It demonstrates that decisions about senior royals can extend far beyond the borders of the UK and require delicate diplomatic and legal coordination.