PRINCE Andrew's military affiliations and royal patronages have been returned to the Queen and he will not continue to perform any public duties. 

Buckingham Palace made the announcement in the last few minutes.

This means the Duke of York will not use His Royal Highness title in any official capacity. 

Prince Andrew is facing allegations of sexual assault in a civil case in the US, brought by his accuser Virginia Giuffre. 

In a statement, the palace also said: "The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen."