The distinction remains one of the few formal honours still linked to the King’s younger brother, who previously lost several royal titles and patronages after stepping back from public duties amid controversy surrounding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The latest review came after the Duke of York was arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Authorities launched the investigation following allegations that sensitive information may have been shared with Epstein during the period when Andrew served as the UK’s trade envoy.
Police reportedly held the prince for around eleven hours while conducting searches at properties connected to him. Officers examined his residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk as well as Royal Lodge in Windsor, Berkshire, where he had previously lived.
Why the Honour Cannot Be Revoked
Prince Andrew originally received the Freedom of the City of London in 2012 through a process known as “patrimony.” This means the title was granted automatically because his father, Prince Philip, had already held the same status.
The Freedom of the City is one of the oldest traditions associated with the City of London and is regarded as the highest civic honour the Corporation can bestow. It is usually awarded to individuals who have made notable contributions to public life or to the city itself.
Recipients are typically nominated by members of the City of London Corporation’s council. However, when the honour is granted through patrimony, the process does not involve a vote by elected officials.
After reviewing the legal framework surrounding the award, the Corporation concluded that titles granted in this way cannot be withdrawn. According to a spokesperson speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the honour is treated as a legal entitlement rather than a discretionary award.
The spokesperson explained that applications granted by patrimony are not considered by elected members, and therefore there is no formal mechanism to remove them once awarded.
A Symbolic Honour With Historic Roots
The Freedom of the City of London carries mostly ceremonial significance today, although it still comes with a few traditional privileges dating back centuries. One of the most famous symbolic rights associated with the honour is the ability to drive sheep across London Bridge, a custom often referenced when discussing the tradition.
Over the years, the honour has been granted to a wide range of public figures from different fields, including actors, musicians, athletes and public personalities.
Notable recipients include actor Cate Blanchett, singer Ed Sheeran, comedian Sir Lenny Henry, Line of Duty actor Adrian Dunbar, Hamilton performer Giles Terera, and sports figures such as Ian Wright, Barry Hearn and Michael Watson.
Ongoing Controversy Surrounding the Duke of York
Prince Andrew has faced significant scrutiny in recent years over allegations connected to Jeffrey Epstein. He has repeatedly denied accusations that he sexually assaulted Virginia Giuffre when she was a teenager allegedly trafficked by Epstein.
Although those claims were not connected to the investigation that led to his February arrest, the controversy has continued to shape public discussion surrounding the prince.
In 2022, Andrew reached a financial settlement with Giuffre in a civil lawsuit, reportedly valued at around £12 million. At the time, he maintained that he had never met her.
Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025, bringing renewed attention to the long-running case and its impact on those involved.
Despite the ongoing controversy, the recent review confirms that Andrew will continue to hold the Freedom of the City of London, as the honour was granted through inheritance and cannot legally be revoked under current rules.
