The Duke of Edinburgh has been rushed to hospital with an infection.

Prince Philip

Prince Philip

The 96-year-old royal is believed to have been admitted to King Edward VII Hospital in London on Tuesday evening (20.06.17) as a "precautionary measure" after an infection related to a "pre-existing condition" surfaced again.

A statement released from Buckingham Palace, which has been obtained by the Telegraph Online, reads: "The Duke of Edinburgh was admitted to King Edward VII Hospital in London last night, as a precautionary measure, for treatment of an infection arising from a pre-existing condition."

However, Prince Philip is in "good spirits" despite the illness, although he is "disappointed" the medical emergency means he is unable to attend the State Opening of Parliament and the second day of Royal Ascot on Wednesday (21.06.17).

The statement continued: "Prince Philip is in good spirits and is disappointed to be missing the State Opening of Parliament and Royal Ascot."

Although Philip cannot make the official opening that marks the new Parliament's session, his son Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, will attend the event alongside Queen Elizabeth II in his place.

The statement confirmed: "The Prince of Wales will accompany The Queen to the State Opening."

While the 91-year-old monarch will be kept updated about her husband's well-being throughout the day, she will still go ahead with her royal duties and appearances, which will see her head to Ascot in England to watch the horses compete against one another for the top prize.

The statement concluded: "Her Majesty is being kept informed and will attend Royal Ascot as planned this afternoon."


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