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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Laura Webster

Queen under 'medical supervision' at Balmoral as doctors fear for her health

Queen Elizabeth meets Liz Truss at Balmoral

THE Queen is under medical supervision at Balmoral after doctors became concerned for her health, Buckingham Palace has said.

It comes after the 96-year-old head of state pulled out of a virtual Privy Council on Wednesday after doctors ordered her to rest.

The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay, Princess Anne, the Earl of Strathearn Prince William, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward and Sophie are all now with the Queen at Balmoral. 

It is known that the Earl of Dumbarton, Prince Harry, is also travelling to the estate separately.

It is understood Meghan will remain in London but could potentially join Harry in Scotland at a later date, a source said.

Kate has also remained at home given Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis have all had their first day at their new school. 

Around 1000 people have gathered outside Buckingham Palace in the rain as public fears grow. 

Members of the press outside Buckingham Palace. Photograph: PA

People have begun laying flowers at the gates as the news spreads. 

A helicopter is circling overhead as people wait quietly for any news on the well-being of the Queen.

A Palace spokesperson said earlier on Thursday: “Following further evaluation this morning, the Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision. The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral.”

The Queen at Balmoral. Photograph: PA

Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle interrupted the speech of SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford during the energy debate to tell MPs: “I know I speak on behalf of the entire House when I say that we send our best wishes to Her Majesty the Queen and that she and the royal family are in our thoughts and prayers at this moment.”

He added: “If there is anything else, we will update the House accordingly.”

Ahead of the announcement, it was apparent that something was going on in the Commons as in "unusual" scenes Labour leader Keir Starmer and his deputy Angela Rayner left the Chamber during the energy bill debate.

Speaker Hoyle was passed a note, prompting speculation over the scenes.

Following the news, Prime Minister Liz Truss said: “The whole country will be deeply concerned by the news from Buckingham Palace this lunchtime.

“My thoughts – and the thoughts of people across our United Kingdom – are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time.”

The Changing of the Guard ceremony - due to take place outside Buckingham Palace tomorrow - has been cancelled.

A sign was placed at the front of the palace where the drills take place to let tourists know it had been called off, although this was later removed.

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