The final judgement, when it came, was phrased with admirable economy. This evening’s statement from Buckingham Palace said simply that:
With The Queen’s approval and agreement, The Duke of York’s military affiliations and Royal patronages have been returned to The Queen. The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen.
In 42 words, Prince Andrew’s royal career has been extinguished forever. He has been reduced from being someone who was once second in line to the throne to being nothing more than a private citizen, and a publicly disgraced one at that.
In 42 words, Prince Andrew’s royal career has been extinguished forever.
It is not unprecedented that someone should be cast out of the inner circle in this fashion. Prince Harry’s departure from the Royal Family was conveyed with a similarly brutal use of language, when it was announced that:
The Queen has written confirming that in stepping away from the work of The Royal Family it is not possible to continue with the responsibilities and duties that come with a life of public service.
But this was at least softened with the statement that:
While all are saddened by their decision, The Duke and Duchess remain much loved members of the family.
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