05 February 2024 , 23:00
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King Charles has started his cancer treatment on Monday, according to Buckingham Palace.
His shock diagnosis - which is not related to his prostate - means he will be stepping back from "public facing duties." However, he will still carry out affairs of the State and deal with paperwork.
In the statement, which announced his cancer diagnosis at 6pm on February 5, it said: "His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual." Despite having cancer treatment as an outpatient, King Charles will still be carrying out three key things that are essential to his role as King.
Audiences with the Prime Minister
King Charles has weekly meetings, known as audiences with his Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. These are expected to continue despite his cancer diagnosis. These audiences are very important for the King and also the PM. While The King remains politically neutral on all matters, he is able to "advise and warn" his ministers - including his Prime Minister - when necessary.
King Charles will be stepping back from public facing duties (Getty Images)Privy Council
Despite his cancer treatment, King Charles will continue to meet with the Privy Council. These include current and past Cabinet Ministers, and the main function of the Privy Council is to advise the King on giving formal effect to Proclamations and Orders in Council, legal instruments which are made under prerogative or statutory powers.
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Dealing with Red Box paperwork
In the statement, Buckingham Palace confirmed the King will continue to deal with paperwork. This usually comes in his red despatch box, and must be addressed daily. Examples of paperwork that King Charles may need to deal with include various meeting notes and documents which the King must sign and provide royal assent for.