🔗 Share this article

In the course of a public appearance 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 protester asked how long the King had been aware about his sibling's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the authorities to "hide" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the heckling, there were crowds of supporters and applause for the King, who was in the region for an event.

The Duke of York's associations 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 wrongdoing.

"How long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for him?"

The King ignored the questions but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom chanted "God Save The King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.

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

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released memoir.

In the publication, the accuser alleges she had sex with the royal on multiple times, including once with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of intimate relations."

Fresh Questions About Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But recently, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made large payments up front, including for improvements.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned before members of parliament to give evidence about his lease of his residence.

But last week, the authorities declined to give parliamentarians time to discuss the prince's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

Buckingham Palace has not commented on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his home - or where he might reside.

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III