Izzy Lepone 30 September 2025

City of York Council could remove Duchess’ honorary title

City of York Council could remove Duchess’ honorary title image
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York.© RoidRanger / Shutterstock.com.

The Duchess of York’s Freedom of the City of York title could reportedly be removed due to her association with Jeffrey Epstein.

The issue is to be discussed by the City of York Council prior to its meeting in November, council leader Cllr Claire Douglas has confirmed.

‘Consideration will be given in advance of that meeting to whether a motion to remove the Honorary Freedom title from the Duchess of York is tabled’, Cllr Douglas said.

The Honorary Freedom title was granted in 1987 to both Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, and Prince Andrew, with the Duke of York’s title being removed three years ago.

Cllr Douglas added: ‘We deplore the links and continued associations with Jeffrey Epstein by those carrying the York title beyond the time the gravity of his crimes became clear’.

LocalGov Weekly Round Up image

LocalGov Weekly Round Up

A pivotal week for councils sees fresh devolution plans, new service pilots and key legal and political battles, writes LocalGov editor William Eichler.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Cleaner

Durham County Council
£24,796 (Pro rata)
Cleaner Grade 1, £24,796 (Pro rata) Permanent, part time. 12.5 hours per week Currently 3.30pm to 6pm Monday to Friday (subject to change depending on Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Outreach Support Assistant

Durham County Council
£32,597 - £36,363
Outreach Support Assistant x 6 Grade 8, £32,597 - £36,363 Permanent, full time. Required to start ASAP.   We are seeking to appoint to the Secondary O Ferryhill
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Tenant Support

Durham County Council
Grade 2 - £24,796 - £25,185 (pro-rata)
If you have elderly friends and relatives, you will understand the value they place on independence. This role will give you the opportunity to work Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Home Care and Support Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 4 - £25,583 - £26,824 (pro-rata)
We currently have multiple vacancies available including permament part time and a casual role. If you have elderly friends and relatives, you will u Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Data Science and Innovation Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 12 £44,075 to £48,226 per annum
We are looking to appoint two enthusiastic, hardworking, and motivated Data Scence and Innovation Officers to join Durham’s Data & Insight service. On Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner