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In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, King Charles was heckled by a man who asked him about Prince Andrew's links with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The individual demanded to know how long the King had been aware about his sibling's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the police to "cover up" for Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were large groups of supporters and applause for the King, who was visiting the region for an engagement.

The Duke of York's associations with Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The royal, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"How long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"

The monarch remained silent but continued greeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard asking him for a hug.

A female bystander outside the venue was also observed telling the heckler to "go away" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been revived by misconduct allegations repeated in Ms. Giuffre's recently released book.

In the memoir, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sexual encounters with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions Over Finances and Living Arrangements

But in recent times, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to finance his way of life despite not being a active member of the royal family.

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

The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned before members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.

But last week, the government declined to give MPs time to discuss the prince's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

The royal household 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
• King Charles III