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During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, the King was heckled by a individual who asked him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The protester demanded to know how long the monarch had been known about his sibling's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the authorities to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were large groups of well-wishers and cheers for the King, who was visiting Staffordshire for an engagement.

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

"How long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for him?"

The monarch remained silent but carried on meeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard requesting him for a hug.

Another woman outside the cathedral was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

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

In the publication, Ms Giuffre claims she had sex with the royal on three separate occasions, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

Fresh Questions About Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But recently, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of MPs to give evidence about his lease of his residence.

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

Buckingham Palace has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his home - or where he might reside.

Related Topics

• The Duke of York
• UK Royal Family
• The Monarch