What Awaits Princes William and Harry After Charles III's Illness

When King Charles III of the United Kingdom announced that he has cancer, his younger son, Harry, flew to London to request an audience with his father. Meanwhile, heir apparent Prince William and other members of the royal family took on certain responsibilities of Charles III. Why the king decided to publicly announce his illness and what is currently happening at Buckingham Palace was explained to RTVI by international journalist, expert on modern monarchies, and author of the Telegram channel "Kings Can Do Anything," Ariadna Rokosovskaya.

How often do members of the royal family publicly announce their illnesses?

“This phenomenon is not only rare but is actually the first of its kind. When Queen Elizabeth II had already passed away, Buckingham Palace only issued a press release stating that she was very ill. Charles III explained that he made this announcement to put an end to speculation and to support others battling the same illness. He initially stated that his reign would be more open than that of Elizabeth II, and he is partially fulfilling his promise.”

Why did Prince Harry return to the UK?

“Harry has been trying for a long time to arrange a meeting with his father. It is no secret that they have had very poor relations since he released his book 'Spare.' This has not been officially announced, but those interested in the life of the British royal family know that Charles III has reportedly conveyed to Harry that if he wants to meet, he needs to request an audience.”

Who is replacing Charles III?

“In this case, there are what are called state counselors. Some of them are senior working members of the royal family whom Charles III can delegate his powers to. Today, they are Queen Camilla, Prince William, his sister, Princess Anne, and his younger brother, Prince Edward. Prince Harry and Prince Andrew are also officially on this list, but in fact, they are not allowed to participate.”

Is the palace preparing for the king's possible death?

“I think that not the palace, but Parliament and the government have some action plan in case King Charles III dies. When Queen Elizabeth II was already in poor condition, there were leaks in the British media that a transitional plan was being developed for transferring and coronating power to Charles. Such arrangements are always made in Britain.”