British monarch has been ‘advised by doctors to postpone public facing duties.’
LONDON — King Charles III has cancer, Buckingham Palace has announced.
The 75-year-old British monarch — who ascended to the throne in 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II — will continue with his royal duties but is stepping back from “public facing” aspects of the role, the statement said.
Charles spent three days in London hospital for prostate treatment last month.
Buckingham Palace said Monday night that during this treatment “a separate issue of concern was noted.”
“Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer. His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public facing duties.
“Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual.”
The palace has not disclosed the form of cancer, but said Charles was “grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention” and “looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”
Responding to the statement, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said of the king: “I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well.”
Breaking the news to MPs Monday evening, Lindsay Hoyle, speaker of the House of Commons, said the thoughts of all lawmakers were “with his Majesty and his family” and wished him “a speedy recovery.”
This developing story is being updated.
