The Monarch Confronts Protest Regarding His Brother's Jeffrey Epstein Links
During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, the King was heckled by a protester who questioned him about Prince Andrew's links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The man inquired how long the King had been aware about his brother's relationship with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had asked the police to "conceal" for Prince Andrew.
Amid the heckling, there were throngs of supporters and applause for the monarch, who was visiting Staffordshire for an event.
The Duke of York's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The royal, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any misconduct.
"How long have you known about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"
The King remained silent but continued meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard asking him for a hug.
Another woman outside the cathedral was also observed telling the heckler to "leave" and to "be quiet".
Scandal Reignited by Memoir
The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been brought back into focus by sexual abuse claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's recently released book.
In the publication, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sex with the royal on multiple times, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"
Prince Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of intimate relations."
New Inquiries About Lifestyle and Housing
But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a active member of the royal family.
The disclosure that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has heightened the examination over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.
The political party said he should be called in front of MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his residence.
But last week, the government refused to give MPs time to debate the prince's titles or his home, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.
The royal household has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his current residence - or where he might go.
Related Topics
- Prince Andrew
- UK Royal Family
- King Charles III