Prince Charles could soon have an increased global role as his father Prince Philip’s health deteriorates
By Charles Miranda in London
Charles’s state duty roles stepped up
PRINCE Philip has been suffering from a heart condition for the past 15 years which doctors have now said is deteriorating rapidly.
The Duke of Edinburgh, 86, was checked into the King Edward VII hospital recently, causing the royal family and doctors concern.
He has since returned to work but the health scare has prompted a shifting in the power base of the royal household.
“Prince Philip in particular is acutely aware of the need to prepare for the future,” London’s Evening Standard reported.
Prince Philip has in the past been credited with modernising what he has dubbed “The Firm” and fast-tracking Princes William and Harry into full-time royal service and encouraging his son Charles to play a higher-profile role in state affairs.
But this year’s annual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Uganda is being seen as a marker for the future, with the Queen and Prince Philip for the first time to be accompanied by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.
Prince Charles’ inclusion in this important state duty is unprecedented and the British press was yesterday branding the move a significant “point of departure” and the start of his head-of-state in-waiting development.
Prince Charles last month spent 90 minutes with PM Gordon Brown discussing a range of issues and setting an agenda for regular meetings.
According to royal correspondent Robert Jobson, the meeting was part of a decision to ensure Prince Charles is closer to the responsibilities of state and to assist his ailing father.
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