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During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was heckled by a man who questioned him about his brother's links with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The protester inquired how long the monarch had been aware about his brother's association with Jeffrey Epstein, and also raised doubts about whether he had asked the police to "hide" for Andrew.

Despite the heckling, there were crowds of supporters and applause for the King, who was in the region for an engagement.

Prince Andrew's associations with Epstein have been under close examination in the past few 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 Jeffrey Epstein? Did you request the police to cover up for Andrew?"

The monarch ignored the questions but carried on meeting supporters, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be heard requesting him for a embrace.

Another woman outside the venue was also observed telling the protester to "go away" and to "be quiet".

Controversy Revived by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Epstein has been brought back into focus by sexual abuse claims repeated in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published book.

In the publication, Ms Giuffre alleges she had sex with the royal on three separate occasions, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Andrew, who reached a out-of-court agreement with Ms Giuffre in recent years, has repeatedly denied any misconduct. In a previous interview, he told BBC Newsnight he did not recall meeting Ms Giuffre "ever", and that they "never had any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions About Finances and Housing

But recently, fresh questions 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 token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has intensified the scrutiny over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments initially, including for renovations.

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

But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's status or his home, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.

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

Related Topics

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