In a significant development, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has voluntarily surrendered his firearms licence following a visit from specialist police officers to his home. The news was delivered to the nation by Good Morning Britain presenters Ed Balls and Charlotte Hawkins during a breaking news segment on the ITV programme.
Police Visit Leads to Surrender of Certificates
According to reports detailed on the show, firearms licensing officers attended the Duke's residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor, on Wednesday, November 19. The 65-year-old is said to have agreed to give up his certificate during this visit. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed the action, stating: "On Wednesday November 19, firearms licensing officers attended an address in Windsor to request that a man in his 60s voluntarily surrender his firearms and shotgun certificate. The certificate was surrendered, and we will not be commenting any further at this stage."
Richard Gaisford, providing further context to the GMB hosts, explained that Andrew is known as an avid huntsman who participates in shooting parties and, as such, possessed multiple firearms and shotguns. However, under the new arrangement, he can reportedly only use these weapons under strict supervision.
A Series of Royal Setbacks
This latest development is part of a wider series of steps taken to distance the monarchy from the Duke following the intense scrutiny over his connections to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this year, King Charles stripped his brother of his royal and military honours and his formal title, the Duke of York.
An official entry in The Gazette, the UK's public record, dated 3 November 2025, confirmed the removal of his princely status. It declared that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor "shall no longer be entitled to hold and enjoy the style, title or attribute of 'Royal Highness' and the titular dignity of 'Prince'."
Understanding Firearms Licence Revocation
The revocation of a firearms certificate is a serious matter under UK law. Police forces have a duty to conduct regular checks on licence holders to ensure public safety. Certificates can be revoked if authorities have concerns about weapon storage, criminal behaviour, or an individual's mental health. A source described the surrender of the licence as "a real blow" to Andrew, highlighting the personal significance of the activity.
This story continues to unfold as the royal family manages the fallout from the Duke's association with Epstein. Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am.
