The Monarch Encounters Protest Over Prince Andrew's Epstein Ties
During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a protester who questioned him about his brother's connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The individual inquired how long the King had been aware about his sibling's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "conceal" for Prince Andrew.
Amid the protest, there were large groups of fans and applause for the monarch, who was in the region for an engagement.
Prince Andrew's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The royal, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.
"How long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to conceal for Andrew?"
The monarch did not respond but continued greeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a hug.
A female bystander outside the cathedral was also heard telling the heckler to "leave" and to "shut up".
Scandal Reignited by Memoir
The controversy over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.
In the publication, the accuser says she had sexual encounters with the prince on three separate occasions, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"
Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."
Fresh Questions Over Lifestyle and Housing
But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to finance his way of life despite not being a active member of the royal family.
The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions initially, including for renovations.
The political party said he should be called in front of members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to discuss the royal's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for investigation.
The royal household has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his home - or where he might go.
Related Topics
- The Duke of York
- UK Royal Family
- The Monarch