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During a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was heckled by a individual who questioned him about Prince Andrew's relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The protester asked how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the police to "cover up" for Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were throngs of fans and cheers for the monarch, who was visiting the region for an engagement.

The Duke of York's connections with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in the past few weeks. The royal, 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 conceal for Andrew?"

The King did not respond but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.

Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Revived by Memoir

The scandal over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct allegations repeated in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, the accuser says she had sexual encounters with the prince on three separate occasions, including once with Epstein and "several other minors"

Prince Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with the plaintiff in recent years, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of intimate relations."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing

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

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

The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of members of parliament to give evidence about his rental agreement of his residence.

But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to discuss the royal's status or his home, despite increasing calls for investigation.

The royal household has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his current residence - or where he might go.

Related Topics

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