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During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, King Charles was confronted by a protester who asked him about Prince Andrew's connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The man inquired how long the King had been known about his sibling's association with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the authorities to "conceal" for Andrew.

Amid the protest, there were crowds of well-wishers and applause for the monarch, 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 relinquished his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"How long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the authorities to conceal for Andrew?"

The King ignored the questions but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.

Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the heckler to "leave" and to "shut up".

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, the accuser says she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including one instance with Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions Over Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

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

The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has intensified the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for renovations.

The political party said he should be called in front of MPs to give evidence about his rental agreement of his lodge.

But last week, the authorities declined to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

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

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• The Monarch