🔗 Share this article

In the course of a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was heckled by a man who questioned him about his brother's relationship with disgraced financier Epstein.

The protester inquired how long the monarch had been known about his brother's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the authorities to "conceal" for Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were large groups of fans and cheers for the monarch, who was visiting the region for an ceremony.

Prince Andrew's links with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has strongly denied any wrongdoing.

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

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

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

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

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

In the memoir, the accuser alleges she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including once with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Living Arrangements

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

The revelation that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments up front, including for improvements.

The political party said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give evidence about his rental agreement of his residence.

But last week, the government refused to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his home - or where he might go.

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III