The Monarch Encounters Protest Over His Brother's Jeffrey Epstein Links
During a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was confronted by a man who questioned him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The individual demanded to know how long the King had been known about his sibling's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the police to "hide" for Andrew.
Amid the protest, there were crowds of supporters and cheers for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an event.
Prince Andrew's links with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The prince, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any misconduct.
"How long have you known about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the authorities to conceal for him?"
The King ignored the questions but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom shouted "God Save The King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a hug.
A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".
Controversy Revived by Memoir
The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse allegations detailed in Ms. Giuffre's recently released book.
In the memoir, the accuser alleges she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"
Prince Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."
Fresh Questions Over Finances and Housing
But recently, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his way of life despite not being a working royal.
The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Windsor mansion has intensified the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions initially, including for renovations.
The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in before members of parliament to give testimony about his rental agreement of his lodge.
But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give MPs time to discuss the royal's titles or his residence, despite growing pressure for investigation.
The royal household has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his home - or where he might go.
Associated Issues
- Prince Andrew
- British Monarchy
- The Monarch