King Charles and Prince William have made a surprising change to their schedules this week. The 75-year-old monarch and his 41-year-old eldest son have canceled their engagements for the rest of the week due to a surprise general election called by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on July 4. Buckingham Palace released a statement, saying, “Following the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon calling a General Election, The Royal Family will postpone engagements that may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign.” The King and Prince apologized to those who may be affected by this decision.
It is customary for the royal family to pause their engagements ahead of an election, as they have always been apolitical. However, some major events will still take place as planned, including the King’s visit to Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings and William’s visit to Omaha Beach to honor veterans. Charles is also expected to attend Trooping the Colour, Royal Ascot, and Garter Day celebrations.
This change in schedule comes after both Charles and William recently returned to their public duties. They made a rare joint appearance while visiting the Army Flying Museum earlier this month. The King had taken time off to undergo cancer treatment, while William briefly stepped away from his duties after his wife, Kate Middleton, was diagnosed with cancer following a planned surgery.
Middleton, who revealed her health condition in a video message, underwent major abdominal surgery in January. Although it was initially thought to be non-cancerous, tests after the operation revealed the presence of cancer. She is now undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy and is currently in the early stages of treatment. Middleton has remained out of the public eye while undergoing treatment, and it is unclear when she will resume her royal duties. Her last public appearance was in December 2023 when she attended the Christmas Day service with her husband and their three children.
