Charles’s cancer diagnosis will cast doubt on his future role

King Charles III’s illness is another setback to the royal family after the Princess of Wales’s absence from public duties due to health issues. Photograph: Samir Hussein/AP

Last Monday, King Charles emerged from a private clinic alongside Queen Camilla to smile and wave to a small crowd.

The message that Buckingham Palace wished to convey was obvious – the monarch is strong and will carry on his duties, despite the health setback.