The Monarch Confronts Protest Over His Brother's Epstein Connections

In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was heckled by a individual who questioned him about his brother's connections with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The individual asked how long the monarch had been aware about his sibling's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were crowds of supporters and applause for the King, who was in the region for an engagement.

The Duke of York's links with Jeffrey Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has strongly denied any wrongdoing.

"For how long have you known about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the authorities to conceal for him?"

The monarch did not respond but continued meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.

A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".

Scandal Revived by Posthumous Publication

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

In the memoir, Ms Giuffre says she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including once with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told a news program he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries About Finances and Housing

But in recent times, 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 nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has heightened the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made significant contributions initially, including for renovations.

The political party said he should be summoned before MPs to give evidence about his rental agreement of his lodge.

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

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

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• The Monarch