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In the course of a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was confronted by a individual who questioned him about his brother's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

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

Amid the heckling, there were throngs of fans and applause for the monarch, who was in the region for an engagement.

The Duke of York's associations with Epstein have been under close examination in the past few weeks. The prince, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.

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

The King remained silent but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard requesting him for a embrace.

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

Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct allegations detailed in Ms. Giuffre's recently released memoir.

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

Prince Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing

But in recent times, fresh questions have been raised 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 nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for renovations.

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

But last week, the authorities refused to give MPs time to discuss the prince's status or his home, despite growing pressure for investigation.

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

Related Topics

• The Duke of York
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III