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

The man demanded to know how long the monarch had been known about his brother's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the authorities to "cover up" for Andrew.

Amid the protest, there were throngs of fans and cheers for the King, who was in Staffordshire for an ceremony.

The Duke of York's links with Jeffrey Epstein have been under intense scrutiny in recent weeks. The royal, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any misconduct.

"For how long have you known about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for him?"

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

A female bystander outside the venue was also heard telling the protester to "leave" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Reignited by Memoir

The scandal over the Duke of York's connections to Jeffrey Epstein has been revived by sexual abuse claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.

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

Andrew, who reached a financial settlement with Ms Giuffre in 2022, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting her "at all", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries About Finances and Housing

But in recent times, fresh questions have been asked about how he is able to finance his way of life 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 intensified the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments initially, including for renovations.

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

But last Thursday, the government declined to give MPs time to debate the royal's titles or his home, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.

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

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• UK Royal Family
• The Monarch