Harry and Meghan release statement on Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis

The pair have reacted to the Princess of Wales' announcement.

In a brief statement issued by Harpers Bazaar, the couple said: "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace."

Harry did not reveal whether or not he plans to return to the UK, as he did when King Charles received his cancer diagnosis.

The Princess of Wales announced in a video message yesterday that she has been diagnosed with cancer and is now undergoing treatment.

The clip was posted on @KensingtonRoyal on Twitter at 6pm yesterday evening, with the caption "A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales."

During the video, Middleton stressed that she was well and hopeful of making a “full recovery” while also requesting that her and the family’s privacy is respected at this difficult time.

“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both,” the Princess continued.

“I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.

“It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.”

Kate added that their time away from the spotlight has also been to help their children understand the diagnosis and her ongoing recovery.

Social media was awash with outpourings of support for the 42-year-old mother of three last night.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has posted a statement on social media declaring that the Princess of Wales has the “love and support of the whole country” following the news of her cancer diagnosis.

In a Twitter post, the country’s leader said: “My thoughts are with the Princess of Wales, Prince of Wales, the Royal Family and in particular her three children at this difficult time.

He added: “The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery.”

“She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today,” he added.

“In recent weeks she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media. When it comes to matters of health, like everyone else, she must be afforded the privacy to focus on her treatment and be loving with her family.

“I know I speak for the whole country in wishing her a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her back in action when she’s ready."

Kate's brother James Middleton posted a nostalgic picture alongside his older sister as children on Instagram, and wrote: "Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too."

Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States, wrote: "You are brave, and we love you. ~Jill."