King Charles will halt his cancer treatment temporarily for an important tour to Australia next week. Doctors have allowed the 75-year-old monarch to pause his weekly treatments to accommodate his global journey, which includes a state visit to Samoa.
Diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in February, Charles will continue his treatment until his departure and resume it upon returning to the UK. The monarch’s tour will last 11 days, including nine days of engagements and two days of travel. As usual, his doctor will accompany him on this official overseas visit.
This significant trip with the Queen marks a crucial point for King Charles. It is his most substantial tour abroad since his diagnosis and his inaugural visit to Australia as the head of state. The visit is expected to spark discussions about Australia’s future with the monarchy and the potential move towards becoming a republic.
King Charles will pause treatment for cancer during his high-profile royal tour of Australia and Samoa https://t.co/M5CkWJpYZl pic.twitter.com/6CaaxG8BhD
— Tatler (@Tatlermagazine) October 7, 2024
Arriving in Australia on 18 October, Charles and Camilla will engage with locals and partake in a community barbecue in western Sydney. They will be officially welcomed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra and will meet two professors renowned for their research on melanoma. The itinerary also includes reviewing the Australian naval fleet in Sydney Harbour.
The schedule allows for rest periods for the King, considering the extensive flight hours involved. Prime Minister Albanese has long aimed to hold a referendum on severing ties with the British monarchy. However, plans were delayed after Australians rejected a proposal to extend greater political rights to Indigenous people in a referendum last year.
Following the Australian visit, Charles will attend events in Samoa focused on sustainability and biodiversity, while the Queen will concentrate on literacy and domestic violence and sexual abuse. The King will then attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa’s capital, marking his first CHOGM since ascending to the throne.
Camilla is planning a pre-tour break with friends this week, while Charles is spending time in Scotland to conserve energy for the upcoming travels. Buckingham Palace has not commented on the matter.
What Other Media Are Saying
- News.com.au reports King Charles’s major health update amid his cancer battle, revealing ongoing treatment progress and public engagements resumption.(read more)
- King Charles announces a temporary halt in cancer treatment to embark on a global tour, including visits to Australia and Samoa, amidst ongoing debates about the monarchy’s future.(read more)
- People reports King Charles pausing cancer treatment during his royal tour of Australia and Samoa, resuming treatment upon return to the UK, focusing on health and engagements.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is King Charles pausing his cancer treatment?
To undertake a high-profile tour to Australia and Samoa.
How long will King Charles be away on his tour?
He will be away for 11 days.
What significant event will King Charles attend in Samoa?
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Who will accompany King Charles on his tour?
His entourage, including his doctor and the Queen.
What is Australia’s Prime Minister’s stance on the monarchy?
Anthony Albanese aims to hold a referendum on becoming a republic.
