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.
Prince Philip will attend previously scheduled engagements between now and August, both individually and accompanying The Queen. Thereafter, The Duke will not be accepting new invitations for visits and engagements, although he may still choose to attend certain public events from time to time.
The Duke of Edinburgh is Patron, President or a member of over 780 organisations, with which he will continue to be associated, although he will no longer play an active role by attending engagements.
Her Majesty will continue to carry out a full programme of official engagements with the support of members of the Royal Family.
Speaking on the announcement of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh stepping down from his public duties, Robert Meadowcroft, Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy UK, said:
“His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh has been our dedicated Patron for over 50 years. We cannot thank him enough for his active support, which has been a precious asset in the fight against muscle-wasting conditions.
“In 1966 HRH The Duke of Edinburgh agreed to become Patron following a request from our then President, the late Lord Richard Attenborough. He had the kindness and foresight to lend his backing to a charity focused on what was then a little known, poorly understood condition. The Duke’s backing was an ‘immense encouragement’ then, as it has remained to this day.
“Through the decades, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has helped to raise awareness and promote understanding of this vitally important cause. He has also met hundreds of individuals and families who struggle to live with muscular dystrophy every day. These moments and memories will be cherished for many years to come.
“We at Muscular Dystrophy UK will remain ever grateful to our Patron, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and wish him a well-deserved and happy retirement.”
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