The Monarch Faces Protest Concerning Prince Andrew's Epstein Ties
During a public appearance to a cathedral in Staffordshire on Monday, the King was heckled by a individual who questioned him about Prince Andrew's links with convicted sex offender Epstein.
The protester demanded to know how long the King had been aware about his brother's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the authorities to "hide" for Prince Andrew.
Amid the heckling, there were crowds of well-wishers and cheers for the monarch, who was in the region for an event.
The Duke of York's connections with Epstein have been under renewed focus in the past few weeks. The royal, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.
"For how long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for him?"
The monarch did not respond but carried on meeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.
A female bystander outside the venue was also heard 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 allegations detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.
In the publication, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sex with the prince on multiple times, 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 Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."
New Inquiries About Finances and Housing
But in recent times, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to finance 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 heightened the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments up front, including for improvements.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in before MPs to give evidence about his lease of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the authorities declined to give parliamentarians time to debate the prince's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.
The royal household has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his current residence - or where he might reside.
Associated Issues
- The Duke of York
- UK Royal Family
- The Monarch