Prince Philip in hospital
2008-04-04 15:15
London - Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip has been admitted to hospital for treatment for a chest infection, Buckingham Palace said on Friday.
"His Royal Highness's programme of engagements for the weekend have been cancelled," said a spokesperson, adding that the 86-year-old had been taken to hospital for "assessment and treatment for a chest infection".
He was admitted to the King Edward VII Hospital in central London, the spokesperson added.
The Duke of Edinburgh was last seen on high-profile duty during a state visit by French President Nicolas Sarkozy last month, but missed a memorial service for Everest conqueror Sir Edmund Hillary on Wednesday, according to a media report.
Last October it was reported that Philip had had a secret heart condition for the past 15 years. The Evening Standard also said that he had suffered a bout of ill health recently, which caused concern among the royal family.
The Duke - born Prince Philippos of Greece and Denmark in June 1921 - is well-known for his robust personality and sometimes embarrassing off-the-cuff remarks.