The Monarch Encounters Protest Over His Brother's Jeffrey Epstein Ties
During a public appearance to a cathedral in Staffordshire on Monday, the King was shouted at by a man who questioned him about Prince Andrew's links with disgraced financier Epstein.
The protester inquired how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the authorities to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.
Despite the protest, there were large groups of supporters and cheers for the King, 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 royal, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any misconduct.
"How long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for Andrew?"
The King remained silent but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom shouted "God Save The King". One fan can be heard requesting him for a embrace.
Another woman outside the cathedral was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "shut up".
Scandal Revived by Memoir
The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by sexual abuse claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.
In the memoir, the accuser alleges she had sex with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"
Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."
Fresh Questions Over Finances and Housing
But recently, fresh questions 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 Windsor mansion has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for renovations.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned before members of parliament to give evidence about his lease of his residence.
But last week, the authorities refused to give parliamentarians time to discuss the royal's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.
Buckingham Palace has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might move out of his home - or where he might go.
Related Topics
- Prince Andrew
- UK Royal Family
- The Monarch