King Charles breaks cover after snubbing Prince Harry visit due to 'very busy schedule'

By Emily Ferguson, Royal Editor

King Charles leaves Clarence House today (Image: Jeremy Selwyn)

King Charles looked in high spirits as he was driven out of Clarence House and headed to Buckingham Palace for a series of engagements today.

The 75-year-old monarch smiled and waved to crowds as he was driven the short journey down the Mall.

It comes after Prince Harry revealed that his father is too busy to meet him while he is back in the UK this week - even though the pair are now just a few miles apart.

The Duke of Sussex confirmed that no meeting will take place due to the King's "full programme".

"It unfortunately will not be possible due to His Majesty’s full programme," they said. "The Duke of course is understanding of his father’s diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon."

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But Harry's visit - his second UK trip this year - comes just as the King is ramping up his schedule, having returned to public-facing duties last week.

This morning he has several meetings at Buckingham Palace and is expected to attend the first garden party of the season this afternoon.

He will then hold his weekly audience with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and a Privy Council meeting.

The 75-year-old monarch also continues to undergo cancer treatment.

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