Why the Royal Family are suddenly postponing their public engagements

May 23, 2024
Prince William has reportedly cancelled an engagement scheduled for later in the week and King Charles has cleared his calendar for now with future engagements to be "reviewed on a case by case basis". Source: Getty Images.

The postponement of royal engagements recently has been a cause for concern for many royal fans.

Whether it’s Princess Catherine suddenly vanishing from the public eye to undergo cancer treatment or King Charles stepping back from public duties following his own cancer diagnosis, the abrupt cancellation of a royal engagement has triggered widespread public concern.

So when news broke that prominent members of the Royal Family had begun postponing royal engagements today, it’s understandable that some royal enthusiasts may have expected the worst.

However, those who have been watching every move of the Royal Family intently will be pleased to learn that the postponements come after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called for a general election on July 4.

The move from members of the Royal Family is aimed at ensuring the public’s attention is not diverted away from the election campaign.

“Following the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon calling a general election, the royal family will – in accordance with normal procedure – postpone engagements that may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign,” a statement from Buckingham Palace read.

“Their Majesties send their sincere apologies to any of those who may be affected as a result.”

Prince William has reportedly cancelled an engagement scheduled for later in the week and King Charles has cleared his calendar for now with future engagements to be “reviewed on a case by case basis”, according to GB News Royal correspondent Cameron Walker.

The news comes at an unfortunate time as King Charles has just begun to ramp up his public engagements since being diagnosed with cancer

Buckingham Palace recently announced that doctors were pleased with King Charles’ response to treatment, giving him the green light to resume some public engagements. His first official appearance saw him and Queen Camilla visiting the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre, where they met with patients and medical specialists.

During his visit, the King spoke candidly about the “shock” of his cancer diagnosis, offering words of empathy and reassurance to fellow patients.

When asked about his health by one patient, King Charles replied with characteristic British understatement.

“I’m alright thank you very much, not too bad,” he said.

Reflecting on his diagnosis, the King shared, “It’s always a bit of a shock, isn’t it, when they tell you?”

His ability to connect with others facing similar challenges was evident as he comforted Lesley Woodbridge, 63, by sharing his own upcoming treatment schedule, saying, “I’ve got to have my treatment this afternoon as well.”

While it’s inconvenient for the Royal Family to have to put their plans on hold for now, royal enthusiasts can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that there’s nothing to worry about and it’s business as usual at the Palace.

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