RICHARD EDEN: 'In times like these we need a strong, well-staffed Firm, with other members stepping into the breach. And I don't mean Harry and Meghan!'

The new concerns about royal health have cast doubt on the wisdom of a 'downsized monarchy', according to the Daily Mail's Richard Eden.

Eden writes in the latest edition of his Palace Confidential newsletter that Kate's lengthy hospital stay plus the news that the King will undergo a procedure for an enlarged prostate has left 'The Firm' exposed – with few frontline royals now available to to work .

Yesterday it was announced that the Princess of Wales has undergone abdominal surgery and is unlikely to resume her public duties until after Easter.

The London Clinic, where the Princess of Wales will stay for the next ten to fourteen days

It has been announced that the Princess of Wales is unlikely to resume her public duties until after Easter

A statement from Kensington Palace was released at 2pm yesterday

Prince William wants to spend time by his wife's side as she recovers

“I must admit it was a shock when a statement arrived from Kensington Palace,” writes Eden, editor of The Daily Mail's Diary.

'Although officials emphasized that the operation was 'planned', its serious nature was reflected in the fact that she would remain in hospital for up to two weeks.

'Nowadays, hospitals often want to discharge patients after just a few days, even after major operations.

“Such royal bulletins usually downplay the nature of the health problems,” but the statement said Catherine was “unlikely to return” to public life over the next eleven weeks.

“Part of my shock was that Catherine, 42, always seemed so fit and healthy and often took part in sporting activities during official engagements,” he continues.

Adding to the sense of a health crisis within the royal family, Buckingham Palace released a statement later that day, revealing that King Charles, 75, would undergo a medical procedure next week.

King Charles and Kate have a warm relationship. Last year in Kenya he called her his 'beloved daughter-in-law'

King Charles has explained that he needs treatment for an enlarged prostate

'Unlike the statement about Catherine, it contained details of his condition, explaining that he required treatment for an enlarged prostate. His engagements would be canceled for a “short period”.

“The fact that two of the most senior members of 'The Firm' will be out of action at the same time, and that Prince William wants to spend more time with his wife while she recovers, adds to my concerns about the King's view of the future. a 'downsized' monarchy.

'In times like these we need a strong Firm, with other members of the family ready to step into the breach.

“And I don't mean Prince Harry and Meghan!”

To read more of Richard's expert Royal commentary, click here