Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, are reportedly firm in their opposition to Prince Andrew resuming any form of public royal duties, British media reported on Saturday.
According to royal expert Brontë Coy, speaking to The Sun, there is little to no support among senior members of the royal family for the Duke of York’s return to public life following his fall from grace.
“I can't imagine that the King or Prince William or any of the other senior royals would agree that he should return to public duty,” Coy said. “I think that's a matter that's been laid to rest."
Prince Andrew, once a prominent figure within the monarchy, withdrew from royal duties amid public backlash over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and subsequent legal challenges. Though he settled a civil lawsuit in the United States, public and royal confidence in him has not recovered.
Coy further noted that while the Duke remains a member of the family, his role within the monarchy has been effectively retired. "Surely it has been agreed even within the royal family, and I would imagine even with Prince Andrew at this point, that he is retired from royal duties but will continue to take part in family events," she said.
The royal expert stressed that while there is no appetite for his public return, Andrew is still expected to participate in private family occasions. "Nobody wants him [in public life]. But of course he's allowed to go to family events," Coy remarked, adding, "Of course he should go to church. In fact, I think he would be criticised if he didn't."
Despite occasional appearances at royal family gatherings, there has been no indication from Buckingham Palace that Prince Andrew’s role will extend beyond private family engagements.
