LONDON - Britain's Prince Andrew today relinquished his royal title of Duke of York and its associated honours after years of criticism for his close relationship with American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a statement, the younger brother of King Charles III again denied all the allegations that have been made against him over his association with Epstein.

"After discussions with the King and my family, we have concluded that the constant allegations against me are damaging to the work of His Majesty and the British Royal Family. I have decided, as always, to put my duty to my family and my country first," said Andrew. But Queen Elizabeth II's second son will continue to use the title of prince, which he has been entitled to since birth.

A 57-year-old man has fallen into disfavor for his ties to US financier and sex offender Epstein, who was found dead in jail awaiting trial on sex crime charges in 2019. The media is also reporting on a scandal linked to one of Andrew's close business associates being named as a Chinese spy by the British government.

ČTK/gnews.cz-jav