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In the course of a engagement to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, the King was heckled by a individual who asked him about his brother's links with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The protester asked how long the monarch had been known about his sibling's relationship with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had asked the authorities to "cover up" for Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were large groups of well-wishers and applause for the monarch, who was in the region for an ceremony.

The Duke of York's associations with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"For how long have you been aware about Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for him?"

The King did not respond but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard asking him for a hug.

Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the heckler to "go away" and to "shut up".

Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct allegations repeated in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sexual encounters with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in 2022, has consistently denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries About Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But recently, fresh questions 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 nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made large payments 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 residence.

But last week, the government declined to give parliamentarians time to debate the prince's status or his home, despite growing pressure for investigation.

The royal household has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his current residence - or where he might reside.

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III