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In the course of a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was heckled by a individual who questioned him about Prince Andrew's links with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The man asked how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "hide" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were crowds of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was visiting the region for an event.

The Duke of York's links with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

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

The monarch ignored the questions but continued greeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard asking him for a hug.

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

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's recently released book.

In the memoir, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sexual encounters with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Prince Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing

But recently, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to finance his way of life despite not being a working royal.

The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has heightened the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments up front, including for renovations.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his residence.

But last week, the government declined to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's titles or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

Buckingham Palace has not commented on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his current residence - or where he might go.

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III