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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 protester who asked him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The individual asked how long the monarch had been known about his sibling's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the authorities to "conceal" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were throngs of supporters and cheers for the monarch, who was visiting the region for an event.

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

"For how long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to conceal for him?"

The King remained silent but continued greeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard asking him for a hug.

A female bystander outside the cathedral was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "shut up".

Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse allegations detailed in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the memoir, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sex with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. 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."

Fresh Questions About Finances and Housing

But in recent times, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.

The political party said he should be summoned before members of parliament to give evidence about his lease of his residence.

But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give parliamentarians time to debate the prince's titles 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 current residence - or where he might reside.

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III