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In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, King Charles was confronted by a protester who questioned him about Prince Andrew's connections with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The man asked how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had asked the authorities to "conceal" for Andrew.

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

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

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

The monarch did not respond but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a hug.

Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "shut up".

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse claims detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.

In the publication, the accuser alleges she had sex with the royal on multiple times, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Prince Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has consistently denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting her "at all", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

New Inquiries About Lifestyle and Living Arrangements

But in recent times, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

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 political party said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give evidence about his lease of his residence.

But last Thursday, the government declined to give parliamentarians time to debate the prince's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

Buckingham Palace has not commented on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his home - or where he might go.

Related Topics

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III