New Delhi, Oct. 18 -- Prince Andrew has confirmed that he will be stepping away from public life entirely and will cease using his royal title and honours, following discussions with King Charles III and senior members of the Royal Family.

In a statement issued on Friday evening, Prince Andrew said the decision had been reached after consultation with his family and in light of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding him. "In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family," Andrew said. "I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back fr...