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During a engagement to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was confronted by a protester who asked him about his brother's links with disgraced financier Epstein.

The man inquired how long the King had been aware about his brother's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had instructed the authorities to "hide" for Prince Andrew.

Amid the heckling, there were large groups of well-wishers and cheers for the King, who was in the region for an engagement.

Prince Andrew's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in the past few weeks. The royal, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.

"For how long have you been aware about Andrew and Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for Andrew?"

The monarch did not respond but continued meeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard 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 Memoir

The controversy over the Duke of York's links to Epstein has been brought back into focus by sexual abuse allegations repeated in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre says she had sex with the prince on multiple times, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Prince Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In a previous interview, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting her "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions About Finances and Housing

But recently, new inquiries have been asked about how he is able to fund his way of life despite not being a active member of the royal family.

The revelation that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has intensified the examination over his housing situation - even though he made large payments up front, including for renovations.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in before members of parliament to give testimony about his lease of his residence.

But last week, the government declined to give MPs time to debate the prince's status or his residence, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.

The royal household has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might move out of his current residence - or where he might go.

Related Topics

• The Duke of York
• UK Royal Family
• King Charles III