King Charles III’s recent cancer diagnosis has been confirmed by Buckingham Palace, though the specific type has not been disclosed, aside from ruling out prostate cancer. The diagnosis was made during a procedure for benign prostate enlargement, where another concerning issue was discovered and identified as cancerous. Given Charles’s age of 75, common cancers in his demographic include prostate, lung, and bowel cancer.
Following King Charles’s ascension to the throne, he will continue to fulfill his duties, including the review of government documents. However, he will not appoint a counsellor of state to delegate his responsibilities. According to the Regency Act of 1937, in the event that Charles is unable to carry out his functions, the regent will be determined based on specific criteria among the 24 individuals in the line of succession.
Beginning with Prince William, the Prince of Wales, and followed by his children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—the line of succession then includes Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, Charles’s second son.
Regarding Queen Camilla’s title, her official designation as Queen Consort will remain unchanged. Despite not possessing constitutional rights and being outside the line of succession, she will continue to fulfill her official duties while Charles undergoes treatment. This signifies her ongoing support for Charles and may contribute to improving her public image.
In light of King Charles’s illness, there are potential implications for Prince Harry, who intends to visit his father in Britain amid the cancer diagnosis. This gesture may facilitate reconciliation within the family and help repair relationships with both Charles and the British press and public following Harry’s departure from royal duties. Despite stepping back from royal life, Harry retains his position in the line of succession.