Prince William and Kate Middleton are said to be facing a “dreaded chapter” as the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew once again threatens to cast a shadow over the royal family.

According to a new report, the Prince and Princess of Wales “have drawn up what aides privately call the final line” when it comes to dealing with the Duke of York.

The couple, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, are preparing to move into their new home, Forest Lodge — located just a short drive from Andrew’s Royal Lodge residence in Windsor.

William and Kate’s ‘firmest stance yet’

Sources told Closer that both William and Kate, 43, want Andrew “permanently off the stage.” The insider described the situation as “the chapter William and Kate have dreaded,” adding that they are determined to ensure the Duke of York no longer plays any active role in royal life.

Prince Andrew, 65, has been mired in controversy for years, primarily due to his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In 2019, Andrew stepped back from royal duties after his friendship with Epstein and allegations of sexual assault became public. Virginia Giuffre alleged that Epstein forced her to sleep with Andrew on three occasions when she was 17. The Duke has consistently denied the accusations, insisting he has no recollection of ever meeting her.

In February 2022, Andrew and Giuffre reached an out-of-court settlement in her civil case in the United States. The deal was made a month after the Duke was stripped of his military titles and royal patronages.