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During a public appearance to a cathedral in Staffordshire on the start of the week, King Charles was confronted by a protester who questioned him about Prince Andrew's relationship with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The individual demanded to know how long the King had been known about his sibling's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the police to "conceal" for Andrew.

Amid the protest, there were throngs of well-wishers and applause for the King, who was visiting the region for an event.

Prince Andrew's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The prince, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has strongly denied any misconduct.

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

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

A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the heckler to "go away" and to "shut up".

Controversy Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's links to Epstein has been revived by misconduct claims detailed in Virginia Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the memoir, the accuser alleges she had sex with the prince on three separate occasions, including once with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. In a previous interview, he told a news program he did not remember meeting her "at all", and that they "never had any sort of intimate relations."

Fresh Questions Over Finances and Housing

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

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a nominal fee on his Windsor mansion has heightened the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made significant contributions initially, including for renovations.

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

But last week, the authorities declined to give parliamentarians time to discuss the prince's titles or his home, despite increasing calls for investigation.

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

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• British Monarchy
• King Charles III