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In the course of a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was heckled by a man who asked him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Epstein.

The protester asked how long the monarch had been known about his brother's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the police to "hide" for Prince Andrew.

Amid the protest, there were throngs of fans and applause for the monarch, who was visiting Staffordshire for an engagement.

The Duke of York's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under close examination in the past few weeks. The prince, who relinquished his titles earlier this month, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

"For how long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"

The monarch ignored the questions but carried on greeting supporters, some of whom shouted "God Save The King". One fan can be heard asking him for a hug.

Another woman outside the cathedral was also observed telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sexual encounters with the prince on multiple times, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

Fresh Questions Over Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But recently, fresh questions have been raised about how he is able to finance his way of life despite not being a working royal.

The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has heightened the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made significant contributions up front, including for renovations.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.

But last Thursday, the government refused to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

The royal household has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his home - or where he might go.

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III