Anti-monarchy protesters breached Buckingham Palace on Monday, unfurling a banner in the throne room that depicted Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein with the question "What did you know?" The banner was displayed by two activists from the campaign group Republic.
Republic is seeking answers from King Charles and Prince William about their knowledge of the allegations against Prince Andrew concerning Epstein, and the duration of that knowledge. Graham Smith, speaking for Republic, stated that the activists brought their questions directly to the "symbolic home of the monarchy." He added, "It is simply not believable to think that Charles and William weren't briefed years ago about the numerous allegations against Andrew." Smith suggested that security services, police, and the government would have raised concerns about Andrew's behavior due to potential national security risks and blackmail possibilities.
Call for Royal Transparency
Green MP Sian Berry plans to address royal secrecy in Parliament this week, advocating for the end of the monarchy's exemption from freedom of information rules. "We need full disclosure from the palace, and as they refuse to speak up the government must take action," Smith said, emphasizing the importance of Berry's proposed reforms.
Republic has indicated that their protests will continue until their questions are answered and has stated its ultimate goal is the abolition of the monarchy, which they claim survives on secrecy.
Allegations and Denials
Buckingham Palace has been indirectly linked to the allegations surrounding Prince Andrew and Epstein. In February of this year, a woman in her 20s alleged that she was trafficked to the UK by Epstein in 2010 for a sexual encounter with Prince Andrew at Royal Lodge. Her lawyer, Brad Edwards, stated that after the alleged encounter, she was taken to Buckingham Palace for tea and a private tour. Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.