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During a visit to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, King Charles was confronted by a protester who asked him about his brother's relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

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

Despite the protest, there were large groups of well-wishers and cheers for the monarch, who was in the region for an ceremony.

Prince Andrew's connections 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 Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"

The King did not respond but continued greeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One supporter can be overheard requesting him for a embrace.

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

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The scandal over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been brought back into focus by misconduct claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.

In the memoir, the accuser alleges she had sexual encounters with the prince on multiple times, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

Fresh Questions About Finances and Housing

But recently, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to fund his lifestyle despite not being a active member of the royal family.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has heightened the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments initially, including for improvements.

The political party said he should be called in before members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his lodge.

But last week, the government declined to give MPs time to discuss the prince's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for investigation.

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

Associated Issues

• Prince Andrew
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III