The Monarch Encounters Heckling Over His Brother's Jeffrey Epstein Connections
During a visit to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a man who questioned him about Prince Andrew's links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The protester inquired how long the King had been aware about his brother's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the authorities to "conceal" for Andrew.
Despite the protest, there were crowds of well-wishers and applause for the monarch, who was visiting Staffordshire for an event.
Prince Andrew's connections with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.
"How long have you known about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the police to cover up for Andrew?"
The monarch remained silent but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One supporter can be overheard asking him for a hug.
Another woman outside the cathedral was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "be quiet".
Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication
The scandal over Prince Andrew's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been reignited by misconduct claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.
In the memoir, the accuser says she had sexual encounters with the prince on multiple times, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"
Prince Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."
New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing
But in recent times, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a active member of the royal family.
The revelation that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has intensified the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made significant contributions initially, including for renovations.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give evidence about his rental agreement of his residence.
But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to discuss the prince's titles or his home, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.
The royal household has not commented on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his home - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- Prince Andrew
- British Monarchy
- King Charles III