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During a visit to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, King Charles was confronted by a man who questioned him about his brother's links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The man asked how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the police to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.

Amid the protest, there were crowds of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an engagement.

The Duke of York's links with Jeffrey Epstein have been under close examination in the past few weeks. The prince, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any misconduct.

"How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the police to conceal for him?"

The King ignored the questions but carried on greeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.

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

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Epstein has been revived by misconduct claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, the accuser claims she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told a news program he did not remember meeting her "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions About Finances and Housing

But in recent times, fresh questions have been raised about how he is able to fund 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 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 summoned before MPs to give evidence about his rental agreement of his residence.

But last week, the government declined to give MPs time to debate the royal's status or his home, despite increasing calls for investigation.

The royal household has not commented on whether the Duke of York might move out of his current residence - or where he might go.

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• The Monarch