THE Princess of Wales will miss royal duties for several weeks after abdominal surgery.
Kate was "doing well" said aides, who emphasised that the operation after her admission on Tuesday has been a success.
They have not identified her condition but it is understood to be non-cancerous. The Princess, 42, will spend up to a fortnight in hospital and will not resume her official duties until after Easter.
Buckingham Palace officials separately revealed that the King is to be treated for an enlarged prostate in hospital next week.
The dramatic health announcements came within 90 minutes of each other yesterday, sparking concern about the number of remaining working royals.
Prince William is to take time out to be by Kate's bedside and to look after their three children.
His wife was admitted to The London Clinic in Marylebone for the planned surgery insiders say her condition was not something that developed over the weekend.
Sources have indicated that Kate may decide to release more details about her surgery later. The future Queen's diary has been cleared for months to allow for proper recovery time at her Windsor home.
William has postponed several weeks of engagements to support his family and is unlikely to resume duties until Kate is settled at home.
The couple's planned international trips have been thrown into doubt, including their visit to Rome in the spring.
Soon after Kate's health statement, inset right, Palace officials announced that the King will next week attend hospital where he will be treated with a "corrective procedure" for an enlarged prostate.
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