Speculation and social media panic erupted briefly after news made the rounds that an emergency meeting had been called at Buckingham Palace, summoning the Queen’s entire staff for an unknown reason.
British tabloid The Sun briefly published a report stating that Prince Philip had died, before quickly deleting the post. Rumors had focused on the elderly royal couple’s health, while royal watchers were quick to point out that there was no reason to suspect a tragic incident.
Instead, it has just been announced that Prince Philip will retire later this year. Buckingham Palace released this statement: “His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh has decided that he will no longer carry out public engagements from the autumn of this year. In taking this decision, The duke has the full support of The Queen.”
Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, who is 95, to step down from royal duties this autumn - Buckingham Palace https://t.co/E47Nd4atqK pic.twitter.com/CFw33SfFiG
— BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) May 4, 2017
At 95 years of age, the Prince’s retirement is well-deserved, and we wish His Royal Highness all the best. We do wonder, what's the appropriate retirement gift for a royal?
