The Monarch Faces Protest Over Prince Andrew's Epstein Ties
In the course of a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, the King was shouted at by a individual who questioned him about his brother's links with disgraced financier Epstein.
The man inquired how long the monarch had been aware about his sibling's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "conceal" for Andrew.
Despite the heckling, there were crowds of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an engagement.
Prince Andrew's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under close examination in recent weeks. The royal, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any misconduct.
"How long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the police to conceal for him?"
The King did not respond but continued meeting supporters, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One supporter can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.
Another woman outside the venue was also heard telling the heckler to "leave" and to "be quiet".
Controversy Revived by Memoir
The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.
In the publication, Ms Giuffre claims she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including once with Epstein and "several other minors"
Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement 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 "did not have any sort of sexual contact."
New Inquiries Over Finances and Living Arrangements
But in recent times, fresh questions 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 Royal Lodge has heightened the examination over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for improvements.
The political party said he should be called in front of MPs to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to debate the royal's titles or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.
Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his home - or where he might reside.
Related Topics
- Prince Andrew
- UK Royal Family
- The Monarch