Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, has had his firearms licence revoked, marking a significant setback in a series of controversies surrounding the ex-royal. The decision, announced on December 22, 2025, comes after a security review by the Metropolitan Police, which is responsible for royal and diplomatic protection.
Known for his passion for hunting, the 65-year-old had previously owned a collection of shotguns and rifles and regularly hosted shooting events at royal estates, including Sandringham and Balmoral. The revocation of his licence means he will no longer be permitted to transport or use his firearms unless under strict expert supervision.
The Metropolitan Police reportedly visited Andrew at his home, Royal Lodge in Windsor, in November to discuss his firearms status. Sources indicate that officers conducted a thorough inquiry, but they did not confiscate his weapons. Instead, they imposed stringent conditions on their storage and access.
Security Concerns Prompt Decision
The revocation of Andrew’s gun licence follows scrutiny linked to his previous associations, including hosting a birthday party for Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, at Sandringham in 2000. In light of these connections, Andrew sought to downplay the event during a controversial interview on Newsnight in 2019, describing it as a “straightforward shooting weekend.”
Reports have surfaced suggesting that Andrew’s ability to host shooting parties on royal estates may also be curtailed. Since losing his royal titles in October, following new revelations about his dealings with Epstein, he has not participated in any shooting events, according to royal insiders.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that officers had attended Andrew’s residence, 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 spokesperson added that the certificate was surrendered, and no further comments would be made at this stage.
Controversial Investigations and Reactions
The decision to revoke Andrew’s firearms licence coincides with ongoing investigations into his conduct. Allegations have emerged that he requested a police protection officer to gather information on Virginia Giuffre, who has accused him of sexual misconduct. Andrew has consistently denied these allegations.
Despite the Metropolitan Police’s previous assurances of investigating claims against Andrew, they announced on December 13 that they would not pursue a criminal investigation, citing a lack of evidence. This decision has drawn criticism, particularly from Giuffre’s family, who expressed disappointment that they were not consulted before the inquiry was dropped.
As Andrew prepares to transition from his current residence to a smaller property on the King’s Sandringham estate, further scrutiny of his activities and associations is expected. The new home, known as Marsh Farm, is reported to be undergoing renovations and is located approximately seven miles from King Charles’s estate.
The revocation of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s gun licence represents a continuing chapter in his tumultuous public life, reflecting the broader implications of his past associations and the ongoing scrutiny of his actions.
