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During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, King Charles was confronted by a man who questioned him about his brother's relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The individual inquired how long the King had been known about his sibling's relationship with Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had asked the police to "conceal" for Andrew.

Despite the heckling, there were crowds of fans and cheers for the King, who was visiting the region for an ceremony.

The Duke of York's associations with Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in the past few weeks. The royal, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.

"For how long have you known about Prince Andrew and Epstein? Did you request the police to cover up for Andrew?"

The King remained silent but continued meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard asking him for a hug.

A female bystander outside the venue was also observed telling the heckler to "go away" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre claims she had sex with the royal on three separate occasions, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told a news program he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Living Arrangements

But recently, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has intensified the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned front of MPs to give evidence about his lease of his lodge.

But last Thursday, the authorities declined to give MPs time to debate the prince's titles or his residence, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement on whether Prince Andrew might move out of his home - or where he might reside.

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III