Many,particularly those working with children,felt it was “no longer appropriate” to continue their associations with him. Others said they had determined to find a representative “better suited” to their aims and values.
When Andrew,61,announced on in November 2019 that he was “stepping back from public duties for the foreseeable future” following the furore over his disastrous BBC interview,many of his charities found themselves in a difficult position.
Several took the decision to end their association with immediate effect. They included the Royal National Institute for the Deaf,the Golf Foundation,the Children’s Foundation,the Outward Bound Trust and the British Science Association. The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children’s Fund said:“We felt that as a children’s charity it was not appropriate for him to remain patron.”
Others such as Berkshire County Cricket Club,the Society for Nautical Research,the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions and Whitgift School in Croydon,also severed ties. Around 200 charities and organisations are said to have the Duke’s backing.
Of around 150 contacted by the LondonTelegraph,47 confirmed they had ended their affiliation with him. Many declined to respond or opted not to comment,suggesting the subject remains highly sensitive.
Of those who had severed ties,the majority said they had not yet replaced him. However,many said they were hoping to recruit individuals more aligned to their aims.
Only three,the British Science Association,the Council of British International Schools and the Tall Ships Youth Trust,said they had contacted Buckingham Palace in the hope of finding a new royal patron.