Boris Johnson's Inspirational Meeting with the Queen at Balmoral, September 2019
- Boris Johnson claims in his memoir that Queen Elizabeth II had bone cancer for over a year before her death.
- He describes her physical decline during their last meeting at Balmoral Castle, while noting her mental sharpness.
- This revelation breaks royal protocol, as Buckingham Palace has not confirmed any health issues regarding the Queen.
In the United Kingdom, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made a controversial claim in his upcoming memoir regarding the late Queen Elizabeth II's health. He asserts that she suffered from bone cancer for over a year prior to her death on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96. Johnson describes their final meeting at Balmoral Castle just two days before her passing, noting her physical decline but sharp mental acuity. He recalls her pale appearance and bruising, likely from medical treatments, while emphasizing her determination to fulfill her royal duties until the end. This revelation marks a significant departure from the royal family's longstanding policy of maintaining medical privacy. Buckingham Palace has not confirmed Johnson's claims, which are the first public acknowledgment of the Queen's potential health issues by a senior political figure. The Queen's death certificate officially listed the cause of death as 'old age,' and the palace has historically guarded details about her health closely. Johnson's memoir, titled "Unleashed," is set to be published on October 10, 2022, and has already sparked discussions about the appropriateness of sharing such personal information. Critics argue that he has breached royal protocol by disclosing private health matters that the Queen likely wished to keep confidential. This incident highlights a generational shift in how royal health issues are communicated, contrasting with the openness of current royals like King Charles III regarding their own health challenges. The implications of Johnson's statements may affect public perception of the monarchy and raise questions about the balance between transparency and privacy in royal affairs. As the public reflects on the Queen's legacy, this new information could influence how her reign is remembered and discussed in the future.