Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is set to retain his Freedom of the City of London honour, following a comprehensive review that concluded the award cannot be legally stripped from him. The City of London Corporation has determined that this honour, which he received in 2012 by 'patrimony' due to his father Prince Philip being a Freeman, constitutes a binding legal right and cannot be rescinded under current regulations.
Legal Basis for Retention
This decision ensures that Mountbatten-Windsor will keep one of the few remaining honours in his possession, after he was stripped of his royal titles due to his association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. The ancient honour, largely ceremonial in nature, grants recipients the quirky privilege of walking sheep over London Bridge and is typically awarded for significant contributions to London or public life.
Background and Allegations
Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office, following allegations that he shared sensitive information with Epstein, an accusation he vehemently denies. Despite these serious claims, the review focused solely on the legal status of the Freedom honour, rather than the merits of the case against him.
The honour's retention highlights the complex interplay between tradition and modern legal frameworks, as it is rooted in historical practices that grant certain rights by inheritance. This outcome underscores that while public figures may face scrutiny and loss of other accolades, some honours are protected by specific legal provisions that prevent their removal.
In summary, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's Freedom of the City of London honour remains intact, serving as a reminder of the enduring nature of certain ceremonial awards amidst ongoing controversies.
