Royal expert suggests Palace may be minimising seriousness of cancer treatment side effects
Worry is mounting over King Charles III’s health following reports of temporary side effects linked to his ongoing cancer treatment. The 76-year-old monarch was briefly hospitalised on Thursday before returning to Clarence House, where he is said to be continuing light duties.
According to Buckingham Palace, the King remains engaged with state matters, making calls and reviewing papers from his study. However, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams has expressed concern that the Palace may be downplaying the seriousness of the situation.
“There’s no question they’re presenting this as a minor glitch on a mostly positive path,” Fitzwilliams told GB News. He noted that despite his diagnosis earlier this year, Charles has remained highly active, citing 372 engagements last year, including 43 overseas.
Fitzwilliams described the King as a “workaholic” with an “extraordinary schedule” and praised his dedication, even while undergoing treatment. However, he acknowledged that side effects at this stage are “not surprising,” and hinted that adjustments to the monarch’s duties may soon be necessary.
The cancellation of four royal engagements on Friday has raised further concern, especially as it’s understood such a move would not have been made lightly. The King reportedly expressed his “deepest apologies” to organisers of a postponed Birmingham visit.
While Fitzwilliams remains hopeful that this is a temporary setback, he also recognised the challenge of planning royal engagements amid ongoing health concerns.
