🔗 Share this article

In the course of a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was confronted by a protester who asked him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The individual demanded to know how long the King had been known about his brother's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the authorities to "hide" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were throngs of supporters and applause for the King, who was visiting the region for an event.

The Duke of York's links with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The royal, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has strongly denied any misconduct.

"For how long have you known about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for Andrew?"

The monarch remained silent but continued greeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard requesting him for a hug.

A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "leave" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Reignited by Memoir

The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Epstein has been revived by misconduct claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre claims she had sex with the royal on multiple times, including once with Epstein and "several other minors"

Prince Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions Over Lifestyle and Housing

But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to finance his way of life 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 intensified the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.

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

But last week, the government declined to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

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

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• The Monarch