“His Majesty the King has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation, and in the hope that it will aid the public’s understanding of all those affected by cancer around the world,” the palace said.
The palace paved the way for a public reassurance operation, announcing that Prince William would return to his duties on Wednesday, with engagements in both Windsor and London. The heir to the throne will participate in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Wednesday before traveling to London to attend a fundraising event for the London Air Ambulance Service.
William, 41, had taken time off work to stay with his wife Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is recovering after abdominal surgery. He had previously said that he would not return to his official duties until her care and recovery were settled.
The King reportedly had the opportunity to tell his children William and Prince Harry and his siblings Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward before the announcement.
The Palestinian Authority quoted a source “close to Harry” as saying that he would travel to the United Kingdom from California to see him in the coming days.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was one of the first to issue a statement of support for the king.
download
“I have no doubt that he will be back to full strength in a short time, and I know the whole country will wish him well,” he said.
The palace said at the time that the king had previously chosen to announce his prostate treatment with the aim of encouraging more men to undergo prostate examinations.
He was said to be happy to raise awareness of the issue, with the NHS website reporting an increase in problems related to prostate disease.
Both Charles' grandfather, George VI, and his great-uncle Edward VIII – who was king for less than a year before abdicating – died of cancer.
Get a direct note from our foreign correspondents on what's making headlines around the world. Subscribe to the weekly What in the World newsletter here.
