King Charles Encounters Heckling Regarding His Brother's Epstein Ties
In the course of a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was shouted at by a man who questioned him about Prince Andrew'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 instructed the police to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.
Amid the protest, there were crowds of fans and applause for the King, who was visiting the region for an engagement.
Prince Andrew's associations 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 been aware about Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"
The monarch did not respond but continued meeting fans, some of whom chanted "God Save The King". One supporter can be overheard requesting him for a hug.
Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".
Controversy Reignited by Memoir
The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Jeffrey Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse allegations detailed in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.
In the publication, Ms Giuffre claims she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including one instance with Epstein and "several other minors"
Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."
Fresh Questions About Finances and Living Arrangements
But in recent times, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.
The disclosure that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has intensified the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments initially, including for renovations.
The political party said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the government refused to give MPs time to discuss the royal's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.
Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his home - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- The Duke of York
- UK Royal Family
- King Charles III