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In the course of a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was heckled by a protester who questioned him about Prince Andrew's relationship with disgraced financier Epstein.

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

Despite the heckling, there were throngs of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was visiting Staffordshire for an event.

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

"How long have you known about Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the authorities to conceal for him?"

The King ignored the questions but continued meeting supporters, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard requesting him for a hug.

A female bystander outside the cathedral was also observed telling the protester to "go away" and to "shut up".

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by sexual abuse allegations detailed in Virginia Giuffre's recently released memoir.

In the publication, the accuser alleges she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including once with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Prince Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has consistently denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told a news program he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of intimate relations."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Housing

But recently, fresh questions 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 living arrangements - even though he made large payments up front, including for improvements.

The political party said he should be summoned before MPs to give testimony about his rental agreement of his lodge.

But last week, the authorities declined to give MPs time to debate the royal's status or his home, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.

The royal household has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might relocate of his current residence - or where he might go.

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III