Major change to Queen's duties after health scare

The Queen is said to be 'back at her desk' after spending a night in hospital last week, but we could be seeing a major change to any upcoming royal engagements, according to new reports.

The UK Telegraph suggests that the 95-year-old will from now on be accompanied by another member of the royal family on any royal outings, who can "step in" in case she needs "company or assistance".

The monarch was recently forced to 'reluctantly' cancel a trip to Northern Ireland after medical advice suggested she rest for 'a few days'.

She then spent a night at King Edward VII Hospital in London "as a precaution" where she was assessed for symptoms of gastroenteritis, and underwent 'preliminary tests'. She was discharged in "good spirits" the following day.

It's thought the change to engagements will "avoid letting the public down at the last minute" given that one of her children or grandchildren are able to fulfil the commitment.

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All official engagements for this week, including the Queen's trip to Rome, were either cancelled or postponed, with Buckingham Palace aides now reportedly awaiting the results of tests and advice from specialists, before they advise on when the Queen can "sensibly" return to public duties.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson commented on the Queen during a visit to a vaccine centre in west London on Friday, saying: “I think everybody sends Her Majesty our very, very best wishes. And certainly we have from the Government.

“But I’m given to understand that actually Her Majesty is characteristically back at her desk at Windsor as we speak. But we send her every possible good wish.”

A source previously said the Queen is “resting and undertaking light duties”.

The Queen initially sparked some concerns after she used a walking aid at a service marking the centenary of the Royal British Legion recently.

The last time she was seen using a walking stick was in 2003 and 2004 when she was recovering from a knee operation.

It had already been reported that the Queen is set to cut back on duties for the remainder of the year.

Her courtiers will also ensure she walks less at public engagements and avoids steps and cobbles, as well as making sure her car pulls up closer to venues.

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