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This momentous statement from Buckingham Palace stripping Prince Andrew of his title is seen as an "recognition" that something occurred to the deceased Virginia Giuffre, relatives have expressed.

In its statement on Thursday, the palace indicated that the Duke of York – under his current designation – will additionally leave his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, as his links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein persist in generating public debate.

The statement concluded with: “Their majesties wish to make clear that their considerations and deepest sympathies are and will continue to be with the affected individuals and those who endured of any and all forms of abuse.”

Family Response: Recognition and Accountability

Questioned whether this implied that King Charles trusts Virginia rather than Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Without a doubt, in my view that he’s speaking very clearly in that announcement when he says he’s with survivors out there.

“This is an acknowledgment that events took place, something has happened. There has been a shift,” he added.

A family member, Amanda Roberts, commented: “Issuing such recognition out for survivors is significant. We haven’t seen that from other parties, and to acknowledge that there are survivors in this situation is an affirmation that wrongdoing did occur.

“This represents the initial step for that justice for those impacted. It is first the acknowledgment that events unfolded here. There was genuine suffering that affected these young girls.”

In a book published after her death, Giuffre – who died earlier this year – repeated allegations that, in her youth, she had sex with Mountbatten Windsor on multiple instances. He has always denied any wrongdoing. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a reported £12m without accepting of liability.

She described the statement by the palace as a “triumph” and “vindication for our sister”.

“We are so exceptionally proud of her, but then the sadness strikes because one hopes she could be present to share this moment alongside her – a moment that she has been anticipating, for a considerable period,” she added.

Advocacy Groups Respond: Significant Statement for Victims

Gender equality advocates and advocacy groups likewise applauded the move by the monarchy, with several saying it conveyed an vital message to those affected of assault.

Gemma Sherrington, head of Refuge, stated it was “highly impactful to see survivors recognised so directly in a statement from the palace”, adding that it sent a message that “survivors matter, that their experiences are believed, and that they deserve to be at the center of national conversations about abuse”.

Penny East, the director at the Fawcett Society, said “this is a welcome acknowledgment that the true sufferers here are not discomfited officials or disgraced princes, but the females who were abused by entitled, misogynistic men.”

However, she added: “Stripping a honor, or moving house can not be viewed as genuine responsibility or sufficient punishment. In fact, a courageous individual, Virginia Giuffre, has lost her life. It was a devastating event, and a reminder of the deep effect abuse has on women and girls.”

Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Resolute Fighter"

Describing Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky said she was a “determined advocate” who could additionally be playful and humorous.

“This is an ordinary girl from an ordinary family that achieved something extraordinary and I think this is something the global community ought to be admiring of.

“She was this strong warrior who refused to back down and refused to stay silent and we are at last receiving that acknowledgment that she truly was a global icon.”

The palace declined to comment.