King Charles and Queen Camilla have postponed their planned visit to Pope Francis at the Vatican, following fresh concerns about the pontiff’s health. The decision came just hours after the pope’s doctors revealed that medics were close to allowing him to die during a recent hospital stay. Pope Francis spent several weeks in hospital, and while his condition has since stabilized enough to allow him to leave hospital, his medical team has recommended an extended period of rest and recuperation. In a statement Buckingham Palace, said: “The king and queen’s state visit to The Holy See has been postponed by mutual agreement, as medical advice has now suggested that Pope Francis would benefit from an extended period of rest and recuperation. Their Majesties send The Pope their best wishes for his convalescence and look forward to visiting him in The Holy See, once he has recovered.” The Palace said that a royal visit to the Republic of Italy will go ahead as planned, although some changes to the program may be necessary. A spokesperson said it was too early to confirm exact details, but updates would be provided in due course.
