Prince Andrew Snubbed as 'Adamant' William Throws Charles an ‘Ultimatum’: 'If York Insisted...'
Prince William, as heir to the throne, is known to be a stickler for royal decorum for the future and reputation of the monarchy. He takes his royal duties seriously and is often seen despising those who overstep. The Prince, as such, was very 'adamant' about his uncle, Prince Andrew, wearing his Garter robes for King Charles' coronation, and threw his father an ultimatum.
Andrew stepped down from his royal duties and patronages in 2022, after the public fallout from his association with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. His absence from the Order of the Garter procession at Windsor Castle on Monday, June 16, however, goes back to William having once thrown a fit after his father's 2023 coronation, when Charles made an exception for his younger brother and allowed him to wear Garter regalia. According to the Daily Mail, William was and remains firmly against his uncle wearing the traditional Garter robes, an honor he himself wears. As per a senior royal source, he was particularly ‘incensed’ when Charles defended his little brother’s right to retain his insignia. Charles reportedly cited a historical incident, when the Duke of Windsor, Edward VIII, was allowed to keep his honors after resigning from the throne in 1936.
Despite the King’s efforts and explanation, William was ‘unconvinced’ as he was concerned about the public’s trust in the monarchy. William, as per the source, allegedly also issued an 'ultimatum' that his uncle’s inclusion at royal public events would result in him withdrawing from the said ceremony. The insider told the Evening Standard, “The Duke of Cambridge was adamant. If York insisted on taking part publicly, he would withdraw.”
As such, Andrew did not participate in the procession of Garter Knights on Monday. According to the Scottish Daily Express, William and Andrew do not share an amicable relationship. Royal expert Hilary Fordwich once told Fox News Digital how the nephew-uncle duo have long had a ‘strained and distant relationship.’ Explaining how this may affect Andrew when William is King, she said, “Andrew’s future within the royal family is beyond bleak, since Prince William is firmly opposed to any public rehabilitation with no foreseeable path back.” The Prince allegedly wishes “for Andrew to vanish from public view.” Fordwich added, “William’s strong stance on 'the Andrew problem’ is consistent, unwavering, and his influence has been decisive in ensuring Andrew remains sidelined...He is driven by his desire… to protect the monarchy’s reputation, doing all he can to safeguard its future.” Fordwich explained that this comes as Andrew is not a popular figure among the public. She asserted, “Once King, no doubt, Prince William will ensure Andrew is completely excluded from royal life, as well as all public appearances.”