King Charles Confronts Protest Regarding His Brother's Epstein Ties
During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was shouted at by a man who questioned him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The protester demanded to know how long the King had been aware about his brother's association with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the authorities to "hide" for Andrew.
Despite the heckling, there were throngs of fans and applause for the King, who was in the region for an engagement.
The Duke of York's links with Epstein have been under renewed focus in the past few weeks. The royal, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.
"For how long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for him?"
The monarch ignored the questions but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom chanted "God Save The King". One fan can be heard asking him for a embrace.
Another woman outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".
Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication
The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Jeffrey Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse allegations repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.
In the memoir, Ms Giuffre says she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including once with Epstein and "eight other young girls"
Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."
Fresh Questions Over Finances and Housing
But recently, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a active member of the royal family.
The revelation that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for renovations.
The political party said he should be called in before MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the government refused to give MPs time to discuss the prince's status or his residence, despite growing pressure for investigation.
The royal household has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his home - or where he might reside.
Related Topics
- The Duke of York
- British Monarchy
- King Charles III