The Duke of York personally denied having sex with an under-age sex slave yesterday -- in his first public statement since the Epstein scandal erupted two weeks ago.
Before British business leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Prince Andrew said: "For the record I refer to events that have taken place in the last few weeks. I just wish to reiterate and to reaffirm the statements which have already been made on my behalf by Buckingham Palace."
His voice noticeably shaky, he added: "My focus is on my work and this evening's reception allows me to tell you about just a couple of the initiatives I have founded and am passionate about."
After addressing the allegations in the introduction to his speech -- an almost unprecedented step for a senior royal -- the prince made no further mention of them as he went on to talk about his work promoting entrepreneurs.
As he left, a member of the press asked: "Will you be making a statement under oath?" The Duke refused to answer, walking past the journalists stony-faced.
