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In the course of a visit to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a man who asked him about Prince Andrew's connections with disgraced financier Epstein.

The individual asked how long the King had been known about his sibling's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the authorities to "conceal" for Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were throngs of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an ceremony.

Prince Andrew's connections with Jeffrey Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The prince, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has repeatedly 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 King ignored the questions but carried on meeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard asking him for a embrace.

A female bystander outside the cathedral was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been revived by misconduct claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre claims she had sexual encounters with the royal on multiple times, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Living Arrangements

But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for renovations.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned front of MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his lodge.

But last Thursday, the authorities declined to give MPs time to discuss the prince's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

The royal household has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his home - or where he might go.

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III