UK PM Rishi Sunak reveals early detection of cancer in Britain's King Charles III
- Posted on February 6, 2024
- International Affairs
- By Arijit Dutta
- 204 Views
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledged the early detection of King Charles III's cancer, expressing relief and support. The King continues state affairs while undergoing treatment, receiving well-wishes from global leaders. Prince Harry plans to visit his father amidst concerns about the monarchy's capacity amid health challenges.
British
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered significant news on Tuesday, disclosing
that cancer had been detected early in King
Charles III. Sunak expressed a mix of shock and relief, acknowledging the
seriousness of the diagnosis but also the fortunate timing of its discovery.
The announcement followed the King's recent treatment at the London Clinic for
a benign enlarged prostate, revealing a separate issue of concern, which
subsequent diagnostic tests identified as a form of cancer.
In
response to the diagnosis, Sunak assured the public that despite this health
setback, King Charles III would continue with state affairs, including his
weekly meetings with the Prime Minister. The monarch's commitment to his
constitutional role as head of state remains unwavering, despite the suspension
of public engagements due to health reasons. The timing of this diagnosis is
particularly notable, as it occurred less than 18 months into King Charles
III's reign, succeeding his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in
September 2022 after a historic 70-year rule.
Buckingham Palace issued a statement on Monday, detailing the circumstances surrounding King Charles III's diagnosis. It clarified that the condition was identified during a hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, prompting the immediate commencement of regular treatments. Despite the necessary postponement of public-facing duties, the King remains actively engaged in state business and official paperwork, expressing gratitude to his medical team for their swift intervention.
Global
leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden,
have extended well-wishes for King Charles III's speedy recovery. Prince Harry,
the King's younger son, has conveyed his support and intends to travel to the
UK to be by his father's side. This news follows a series of health challenges
within the royal family, including Princess Kate's recent hospitalization and
ongoing recovery from abdominal surgery.
As
concerns mount about the monarchy's capacity amid these health issues, both
Prince William and Queen Camilla are expected to assume additional public
engagements during this period. However, there are currently no plans to
appoint "counsellors of state" to deputize the King on constitutional
duties. The King and Queen's scheduled international visits remain uncertain
pending further updates on King Charles III's health.