The King has been diagnosed with cancer.
His Majesty is now receiving treatment for the condition and will give up public facing engagements while this course takes place.
It isn’t known how long the schedule will take.
The engagements which will have been planned for His Majesty long in advance will be postponed or carried out by other members of the Royal Family. As these aren’t announced a long way in advance, it’s not known how many duties are affected in this way.
However, there are some high profile events at which The King would be expected which may now be in question.
In March, King Charles is set to carry out one of the most ancient duties of the Monarch and distribute Maundy Money. This old tradition dates back centuries and sees the Sovereign hand special coins to chosen recipients at a church service. It always takes place on Maundy Thursday which, this year, falls on March 28th 2024. It’s not yet clear whether The King will have completed his treatment by then or whether someone else – perhaps Queen Camilla or the Prince of Wales – will carry the duty out for him.
The Royal Family has a packed schedule of regular events in spring and early summer and The King’s participation in these events may now be in question.
In May, they usually attend the Chelsea Flower Show while June is particularly important.
King Charles would be expected to lead the annual Order of the Garter procession which happens in the early part of June.
He would also ride out for Trooping the Colour – it may be that the Prince of Wales stands in for him at this important occasion.
June also sees Royal Ascot which is a particular favourite of King Charles.
However, there are some duties that no one else can carry out for The King. Only the Head of State can carry out a State Visit meaning that both incoming and outgoing trips will be on hold while His Majesty is treated.
Buckingham Palace says His Majesty hopes to return to duties as soon as possible.
