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In the course of a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was confronted by a protester who questioned him about Prince Andrew's links with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The man inquired how long the King had been known about his sibling's association with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the authorities to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.

Amid the protest, there were crowds of supporters and applause for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an ceremony.

Prince Andrew's associations with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in the past few weeks. The royal, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

"For how long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the authorities to conceal for him?"

The King remained silent but carried on meeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard requesting him for a hug.

Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "be quiet".

Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's recently released memoir.

In the publication, the accuser alleges she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Lifestyle and Housing

But recently, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his way of life despite not being a working royal.

The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has intensified the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made significant contributions initially, including for improvements.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.

But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give parliamentarians time to discuss the prince's titles or his residence, despite growing pressure for investigation.

Buckingham Palace has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might move out of his home - or where he might go.

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III