The Monarch Encounters Heckling Regarding His Brother's Epstein Links

In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a man who asked him about his brother's connections with disgraced financier Epstein.

The protester asked how long the King had been known about his sibling's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the police to "hide" for Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were throngs of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was in the region for an engagement.

Prince Andrew's links with Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The royal, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"For how long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to conceal for Andrew?"

The monarch remained silent but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom shouted "God Save The King". One fan can be overheard asking him for a hug.

Another woman 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 revived by misconduct allegations repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released memoir.

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

Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions About Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But in recent times, fresh questions have been raised about how he is able to fund his way of life 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 intensified the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for improvements.

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

But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to debate the prince's titles or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

The royal household has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his current residence - or where he might reside.

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• UK Royal Family
• The Monarch