Prince Philip to stay away from public functions

An emergency meeting at the Buckingham Palace on Thursday fuelled a frenzy over the health of royal family members, but ended with a statement that Prince Philip, 96, will withdraw from public engagements from the autumn.

There was worldwide speculation overnight after The Sun briefly published online – and later removed — “news” that Prince Philip had died. A Daily Mail report added to the speculation by reporting that all royal staff had been called to the meeting in London.

After the meeting at 10 am, Buckingham Palace released a statement: “His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh has decided that he will no longer carry out public engagements from the autumn of this year. In taking this decision, The Duke has the full support of The Queen.”

The statement said Prince Philip will attend previously scheduled engagements till August, but he will not accept new invitations for visits and engagements, although he may still choose to attend certain public events from time to time.

Prince Philip is patron, president or member of over 780 organisations, with which he will continue to be associated,though he will no longer play an active role, the statement said.

Soon after the statement from Buckingham Palace, Prime Minister Theresa May offered “deepest gratitude and good wishes” on behalf of the country to the Duke of Edinburgh.

As the Queen’s consort, Prince Philip accompanied her to India on three occasions — 1961, 1983 and 1997.