King Charles is facing a call to meet with the victims of Jeffrey Epstein during his upcoming visit to the US.
Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has urged the monarch to privately meet the survivors of the convicted sex offender to hear “how powerful individuals and institutions failed them”.
He noted that members of Congress have wanted testimony from the King’s younger brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, about his ties to Epstein.
The former prince, who was stripped of his titles in October after more information came to light about his friendship with the late paedophile, has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Buckingham Palace has previously said that the King’s “sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse”.
Charles and Queen Camilla are set to visit the US in late April to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence. While the trip has not been confirmed, it is believed to contain a trip to Washington DC and an address to Congress.
In a letter to the King, Mr Khanna, who co-sponsored a law that called on the US justice department to release the Epstein files, said that “this is not solely an American matter”.
He wrote that the connections with British public figures “raise broader questions about how Epstein was able to maintain influence, credibility and protection across borders for so long”.
In his letter, Mr Khanna said: “Epstein’s network had significant ties to the United Kingdom through Ghislaine Maxwell, through Epstein’s relationships with British public figures, and through the social and political circles in which he operated.”
The Independent has approached Buckingham Palace on Mr Khanna’s request.
Following Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the King said the royal family were “ready to support” the police investigation.
In a statement, the King said: “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.
“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.
“In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.
“As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all. Charles R.”
In 2022, the former Duke of York reached an out-of-court settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexually abusing her at Epstien’s property when she was 17 years old. The settlement contained no admission of liability and Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
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