Elected members of the City of London Corporation have written to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, pressing him to voluntarily surrender his Freedom of the City honor amid ongoing scrutiny over his associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The 66-year-old, who received the ceremonial title in 2012 through patrimony as the son of the late Prince Philip, a former Freeman, now faces this request following renewed pressure. Last March, the Corporation explored options to revoke the honor but concluded that inherited rights made removal legally impossible.
Corporation’s Official Stance
A spokesperson for the City of London Corporation confirmed the action, stating: “Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor received the Freedom of the City of London in 2012 by virtue of patrimony, which is inherited as the child of a Freeman and constitutes a legal right. Applications via patrimony are not considered or endorsed by our elected Members, and there is no effective legal mechanism to remove this type of Freedom.”
“Elected Members have today agreed to write to Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, inviting him to formally relinquish the Freedom. They will consider the response received, if any, at a future meeting and determine what action may be taken.”
Details of the Historic Honor
The Freedom of the City, a symbolic distinction typically awarded to notable figures nominated by councillors, grants recipients the quirky right to herd sheep across London Bridge. Recent honorees include comedian Sir Lenny Henry, actress Cate Blanchett, choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne, boxer Frank Bruno, footballer Harry Kane, and musician Ronnie Wood.
Broader Context and Epstein Connections
This development follows King Charles III’s initiation last October of proceedings to remove Andrew’s royal titles, styles, and honors due to heightened focus on his Epstein ties. Authorities arrested the former trade envoy on suspicion of misconduct in public office, alleging he shared sensitive information with Epstein. Newly released U.S. Department of Justice documents from the Epstein files include correspondence hinting at such exchanges.
Andrew, who remains eighth in line to the throne, spent 11 hours in custody before release under investigation. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
