A statement announcing that King Charles is battling cancer was released to the world’s press just before 6pm this evening. The announcement’s timing is likely to have been for a very sensible reason.
Buckingham Palace decided to share the news just before the BBC News at Six was about to go on air. Throughout history, consideration has often been given to the timing of major royal announcements so they could coincide with news broadcasts or newspaper publication times.
This evening media organisations were given the news with a 6pm embargo, meaning it couldn’t be shared before then but allowing them a few minutes to prepare stories or television broadcasts.
King Charles has recently undergone a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate at the London Clinic, where he remained for three days. He was pictured leaving with Queen Camilla, waving and smiling, as he got into a car and was whisked back to Clarence House.
The treatment was deemed successful, and he has been recuperating since, with Queen Camilla giving small updates when out in public, confirming the King was making good progress.
The type of cancer Charles is currently battling has not been confirmed, and neither has the stage – which would indicate the severity.
The King’s statement says: “During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
“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. The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure.
“He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
The time of 6pm is important historically to the Royal Family as it has been a benchmark for when important announcements have been made to the public.
The plan, before the late Queen died, was for news of her passing to be announced at 6pm – however, this time lapsed by 30 minutes on September 8, 2022.
The BBC, at the time, suspended broadcasts leading up to 6pm as news of the Queen’s worsening health spread among news outlets, with an announcement from the palace tipped to arrive between 6pm and 7pm.