Full Breakdown
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Retains Freedom of the City of London Honour
3/6/2026, 10:28:14 PM
Review Confirms Honour Cannot Be Revoked
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, will retain the Freedom of the City of London, an honour he received in 2012 due to his father's status as a Freeman. A review by the City of London Corporation concluded that the honour, granted "by virtue of patrimony," cannot be revoked. The corporation clarified that applications for this honour via patrimony are not subject to consideration by elected members, and thus, the legal right to the honour remains intact.
Background on the Honour
The Freedom of the City of London is an ancient and largely ceremonial honour, typically awarded to individuals for contributions to public life. Recipients enjoy various privileges, including the unusual right to walk sheep over London Bridge. Notable past recipients include Sir Ian McKellen, Colin Firth, and Dame Judi Dench. The honour is one of the few remaining accolades for Mountbatten-Windsor, who has faced significant public scrutiny and legal challenges due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Recent Developments and Legal Challenges
Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his royal titles by his brother, King Charles, in October 2022, following allegations of misconduct in public office related to his role as a trade envoy. He was arrested on February 19, 2026, on suspicion of sharing sensitive information with Epstein, spending approximately 11 hours in custody. The UK government is currently reviewing files related to his appointment as trade envoy, although they are unable to release certain materials until police inquiries are complete.
Criticism and Opposition
The decision to retain the Freedom of the City of London has drawn criticism, particularly from those who believe that Mountbatten-Windsor's past actions warrant a reevaluation of his honours. Reports indicate that Prince William expressed frustration over the slow process of removing his uncle from the royal line of succession, highlighting ongoing tensions within the royal family regarding Mountbatten-Windsor's status.
Official Statements
A spokesperson for the City of London Corporation 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." This sentiment underscores the legal complexities surrounding the honour and the limitations of the corporation's authority in this matter.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Applications via patrimony are not considered by our elected members. 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.” — City of London Corporation Spokesperson
- “The Prince of Wales is said to be frustrated that the process of his uncle’s removal from the line to the British throne, which the government is now weighing up, was not resolved at the time.” — Source on Prince William's sentiments
Conclusion
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's retention of the Freedom of the City of London highlights the complexities of royal honours and the legal frameworks governing them. As he navigates ongoing scrutiny and legal challenges, the implications of this decision continue to resonate within the royal family and the public sphere.
