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In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was confronted by a protester who questioned him about his brother's links with disgraced financier Epstein.

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

Amid the protest, there were large groups of well-wishers and cheers for the monarch, who was visiting Staffordshire for an ceremony.

The Duke of York's connections with Epstein have been under close examination in the past few weeks. The royal, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"How long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to conceal for him?"

The King remained silent but continued greeting fans, some of whom chanted "God Save The King". One fan can be heard requesting him for a embrace.

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

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over the Duke of York's links to Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse allegations repeated in Ms. Giuffre's recently released book.

In the publication, the accuser claims she had sex with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has consistently denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing

But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund 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 Royal Lodge has heightened the examination over his housing situation - even though he made large payments up front, including for renovations.

The political party said he should be summoned front of MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his lodge.

But last week, the government refused to give parliamentarians time to debate the prince's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for investigation.

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

Related Topics

• The Duke of York
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III