Prince Andrew misses Royal ceremony amid fear of “Backlash”
The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, was barred from attending the Order of the Garter event on Monday, June 13, which includes the yearly parade from Windsor Castle to St George’s Chapel. After Prince Charles of Wales and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge intervened, the decision to prohibit Prince Andrew from public appearances was taken. The two princes have increasingly taken the lead in decisions like this, especially over perceptions about the royal family’s public image and standing are concerned.
The Royals worked with British Queen Elizabeth II to change the plan, fearing a “backlash,” according to the UK newspaper The Telegraph. Meanwhile, allegations surfaced that the duke has been striving to reclaim his royal status following an 11-year legal struggle with sex trafficking victim Virginia Roberts-Giuffre, which ended in a financial settlement paid by the Queen.
Andrew’s absence also ensured that Camilla’s big day was not overshadowed, which would have been a comfort for Charles. The heir to the throne is thought to have suggested that Andrew should not attend the important occasion. Earlier, Prince Andrew was also stripped of his ‘Freedom of the City of York’ honor after a vote by councilors.
Andrew did, however, attend a private ceremony inside the castle on Monday, where Camilla and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair were both invested in the Order of the Garter.
The Queen did not attend the public section of Monday’s royal function due to ongoing health concerns. Inside the castle, she arranged a private meeting and a lunch.