The Monarch Encounters Heckling Over His Brother's Jeffrey Epstein Links
During a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was shouted at by a man who asked him about Prince Andrew's links with convicted sex offender 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 "hide" for Prince Andrew.
Despite the protest, there were crowds of fans and applause for the monarch, who was in Staffordshire for an ceremony.
Prince Andrew's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under close examination in the past few weeks. The prince, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has strongly denied any wrongdoing.
"How long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"
The monarch did not respond but continued meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a hug.
A female bystander outside the venue was also observed telling the protester to "go away" and to "be quiet".
Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication
The scandal over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct allegations detailed in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.
In the publication, the accuser alleges she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"
Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, 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 About Finances and Living Arrangements
But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his way of life despite not being a working royal.
The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has intensified the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.
The political party said he should be called in front of MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his residence.
But last Thursday, the government refused to give MPs time to debate the royal's status or his home, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.
The royal household has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his current residence - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- The Duke of York
- British Monarchy
- The Monarch