The Monarch Encounters Heckling Regarding Prince Andrew's Jeffrey Epstein Connections
In the course of a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was confronted by a man who questioned him about his brother's relationship with disgraced financier Epstein.
The protester asked how long the monarch had been known about his brother's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the police to "hide" for Prince Andrew.
Amid the protest, there were throngs of fans and applause for the monarch, who was in Staffordshire for an event.
The Duke of York's connections with Epstein have been under close examination in recent weeks. The royal, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.
"For how long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the authorities to cover up for him?"
The monarch did not respond but continued greeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be overheard requesting him for a hug.
Another woman outside the cathedral was also heard telling the protester to "leave" and to "shut up".
Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication
The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct allegations repeated in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.
In the publication, the accuser says she had sexual encounters with the prince on multiple times, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"
Prince Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."
New Inquiries About Finances and Housing
But in recent times, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to fund his way of life despite not being a active member of the royal family.
The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has intensified the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments up front, including for improvements.
The political party said he should be summoned before MPs to give testimony about his lease of his residence.
But last week, the authorities refused to give MPs time to debate the prince's titles or his home, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.
Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his current residence - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- The Duke of York
- UK Royal Family
- The Monarch