The Monarch Confronts Heckling Over His Brother's Epstein Links
In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was shouted at by a protester who asked him about his brother's connections with convicted sex offender Epstein.
The man inquired how long the monarch had been known about his sibling's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.
Despite the heckling, there were throngs of supporters and cheers for the King, who was in the region for an event.
The Duke of York's links with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The royal, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.
"How long have you been aware about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"
The King ignored the questions but carried on meeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard asking him for a hug.
A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "leave" and to "shut up".
Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication
The controversy over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's recently released memoir.
In the publication, Ms Giuffre says she had sex with the royal on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"
Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of intimate relations."
Fresh Questions Over Lifestyle and Living Arrangements
But recently, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to fund his way of life despite not being a active member of the royal family.
The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has heightened the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments initially, including for renovations.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of MPs to give evidence about his lease of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give parliamentarians time to discuss the prince's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for investigation.
Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his home - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- Prince Andrew
- British Monarchy
- King Charles III