The Monarch Faces Heckling Concerning His Brother's Epstein Connections
During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was shouted at by a man who questioned him about his brother's links with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The man asked how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the police to "cover up" for Prince Andrew.
Despite the protest, there were crowds of supporters and cheers for the monarch, who was visiting the region for an ceremony.
The Duke of York's associations with Epstein have been under renewed focus in the past few weeks. The prince, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.
"How long have you known about Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for him?"
The King ignored the questions but continued meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "God Save The King". One supporter can be heard requesting him for a embrace.
Another woman outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".
Controversy Revived by Memoir
The controversy over the Duke of York's connections to Epstein has been reignited by misconduct claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.
In the memoir, the accuser alleges she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including one instance with Epstein and "several other minors"
Prince Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."
New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing
But in recent times, fresh questions 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 disclosure that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments up front, including for renovations.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of members of parliament to give evidence about his lease of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to debate the prince's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.
The royal household has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his current residence - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- Prince Andrew
- British Monarchy
- The Monarch