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In the course of a public appearance to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a individual who questioned him about his brother's links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The man demanded to know how long the monarch had been known about his brother's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were large groups of well-wishers and applause for the monarch, who was in the region for an event.

The Duke of York's connections with Jeffrey Epstein have been under close examination in the past few weeks. The prince, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has strongly denied any misconduct.

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

The monarch ignored the questions but carried on meeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard asking him for a hug.

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

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Jeffrey Epstein has been brought back into focus by sexual abuse allegations detailed in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.

In the publication, the accuser claims she had sex with the royal on multiple times, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in 2022, has consistently denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

Fresh Questions About Finances and Living Arrangements

But in recent times, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has heightened the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments up front, including for renovations.

The political party said he should be called in front of MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his residence.

But last week, the government refused to give MPs time to debate the royal's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.

Buckingham Palace 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
• King Charles III