Speaking as a statement released by Her Royal Highness, Catherine, the Princess of Wales, gave information of her cancer diagnosis, Ulster Unionist Party Leader Doug Beattie MC MLA said.

"Cancer is an invasive and insidious disease that many within our wider society face on a daily basis. They do so in private, surrounded by family and friends.

"Today, the news that the Princess of Wales is also battling cancer is of concern to the whole country but mostly to her family and particularly her young children. Sadly, she has to face this challenge in the glare of media speculation.

"On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I would like to wish Her Royal Highness a speedy recovery and hope she, and her family, will be given space to deal with this terrible disease in private."