Prime Minister Boris Johnson has his weekly meetings with Queen Elizabeth in Buckingham Palace, as she did for the other PMs before him in her long reign. On Tuesday, however, it was revealed that Prince Charles, the heir to the throne, had a "rare meeting" with Johnson in Clarence House.
According to Sky News, Prince Charles' meeting with Johnson was indicated as a one liner in a circular that lists down royal engagements. This raised questions because it was out of the usual on-goings in the palace.
Prince Charles has his regular meeting with the prime minister only once a year. He meets with the sitting PM every September in the Queen's summer home in Balmoral.
Other than that, the heir apparent usually doesn't hold an audience with the prime minister. Clarence House and Downing Street, however, would not comment on the nature of the meeting last Tuesday despite the media reaching out for clarification.
Speculations about a transfer of power are rife, despite sources saying that the Queen will not abdicate or have Prince Charles ascend the throne. Apparently, as a young monarch, the Queen promised her subjects that she will fulfil her duty until her death. Her Majesty is turning 94 years old in April thus some royal observers think she may be considering slowing down with her public duties.
The rumored abdication also comes as Prince William has been meeting with Prince Charles and his team to take on more active roles of the Duchy of Cornwall. The estate is inherited by the heir to the throne, which means that Prince William will have the land and its business once his father is king.
Meanwhile, a doctor warned that Queen Elizabeth may be putting her health at risk of the coronavirus infection. Dr. Diana Gall said that the risks against COVID-19 are greater at Her Majesty's age.
Gall said that the virus is particularly damaging to the respiratory system of elderly patients. If Queen Elizabeth were to catch the virus, then it will be serious for her.
On a recent investiture ceremony, Queen Elizabeth was seen wearing gloves as a precaution from the deadly disease. However, Buckingham Palace stated that the Queen wears gloves during public engagements most of the time, thus this was not something out of the ordinary.
The following day, however, Queen Elizabeth was shaking hands and greeting guests without her gloves on. According to reports, the royal family are following guidance from the government's health office with regards preventing the spread of the virus.
