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In the course of a public appearance to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, King Charles was heckled by a protester who asked him about Prince Andrew's relationship with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The protester asked how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's association with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the police to "hide" for Prince Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were crowds of fans and applause for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an engagement.

The Duke of York's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under close examination in recent weeks. The prince, who gave up his titles earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"How long have you been aware about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for Andrew?"

The King ignored the questions but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard 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 Posthumous Publication

The scandal over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.

In the memoir, the accuser claims she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", 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 finance his lifestyle despite not being a active member of the royal family.

The revelation 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 improvements.

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 refused to give MPs time to debate the royal's titles or his home, despite increasing calls for investigation.

Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his current residence - or where he might go.

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III