British police were asked to investigate a possible breach of Kate Middleton‘s health records following ongoing speculation surrounding the condition and whereabouts of the Princess of Wales, says a British health minister.
Earlier this week, the British outlet The mirror reported that the London Clinic, where Kate was treated in January for “planned abdominal surgery,” has launched an investigation into allegations that staff tried to access her private medical records.
O Information Commissioner’s OfficeBritain’s data watchdog released a statement on Wednesday confirming it is investigating this.
“We can confirm that we have received a breach report and are evaluating the information provided,” the ICO shared.
According to The IndependentBritish health minister Maria Caulfield said police were “asked to check” whether staff at the London Clinic attempted to access Prince William’s wife’s medical records.
Caulfield added that there will be “heavy implications” for anyone trying to access the files without permission. This could result in prosecution or fines.
And although Caulfield said police had been contacted, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said he was not aware of any referral to the force, according to The Independent.
ET has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment.
London Clinic CEO Al Russell released a statement to Sky Newssharing: “Everyone at London Clinic is acutely aware of our individual, professional, ethical and legal duties with regards to patient confidentiality. We take enormous pride in the excellent care and discretion we aim to provide to all of our patients who place their trust in us every day. We have systems in place to monitor the management of patient information, and in the event of any breach, all appropriate investigative, regulatory and disciplinary measures will be taken. There is no place in our hospital for those who intentionally violate the trust of any of our patients or colleagues.”
O drama with the royal mother of three began in January, when the Palace announced that Kate had undergone “planned abdominal surgery” and would step away from public duties until after the Easter holidays.
When weeks passed without Kate being seen, many began to speculate about her health and whereabouts. So, in honor of British Mother’s Day, the Palace released an image of Kate and her three children – Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5 – that was reportedly taken by Prince William. However, shortly afterward, several media outlets, including the Associated Press, removed the image, saying it was “doctored,” leading to even more speculation. Kate released a statement amid the controversy.
“Like many amateur photographers, I occasionally experiment with editing,” she wrote. “I want to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a happy Mother’s Day.”
But even after a video of William and Kate reportedly at Windsor Farm Shop emerged over the weekend, conspiracy theorists were not pleased.
To learn more about Kate, check out the links below.
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