The Monarch Confronts Protest Regarding Prince Andrew's Jeffrey Epstein Links
During a engagement to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a protester who asked him about his brother's links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The individual demanded to know how long the King had been known about his brother's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "conceal" for Prince Andrew.
Amid the heckling, there were crowds of well-wishers and cheers for the monarch, who was visiting the region for an ceremony.
Prince Andrew's links with Jeffrey Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has strongly denied any wrongdoing.
"How long have you been aware about Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the police to cover up for Andrew?"
The King ignored the questions but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard asking him for a hug.
A female bystander outside the cathedral was also observed telling the heckler to "leave" and to "shut up".
Scandal Revived by Memoir
The scandal over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been reignited by misconduct claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.
In the publication, the accuser claims she had sexual encounters with the prince on multiple times, including once with Epstein and "several other minors"
Prince Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."
Fresh Questions About Finances 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 revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Royal Lodge has heightened the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments initially, including for renovations.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give evidence about his rental agreement of his residence.
But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give MPs time to discuss the prince's titles 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 home - or where he might go.
Related Topics
- Prince Andrew
- British Monarchy
- The Monarch