🔗 Share this article

In the course of a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was confronted by a man who questioned him about his brother's links with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The man inquired how long the King had been aware about his brother's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "conceal" for Andrew.

Despite the heckling, there were throngs of well-wishers and cheers for the monarch, who was in the region for an event.

The Duke of York's links with Epstein have been under close examination in recent weeks. The prince, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has strongly denied any misconduct.

"How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for him?"

The monarch ignored the questions but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom chanted "God Save The King". One supporter can be overheard asking him for a hug.

A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been reignited by misconduct claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released memoir.

In the publication, the accuser claims she had sexual encounters with the royal on multiple times, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions Over Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But recently, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a active member of the royal family.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.

The political party said he should be called in before members of parliament to give testimony about his rental agreement of his residence.

But last week, the government declined to give parliamentarians time to discuss the prince's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

The royal household has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might move out of his home - or where he might reside.

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III