The real reason Prince Philip took the unusual step to break his silence to thank key workers

Prince Philip issued a public statement to thank key workers amid the coronavirus outbreak yesterday. Here is why he broke his three-year retirement to speak out...

• According to a royal commentator, Philip's decision to issue a public statement was motivated by both his 'passion' for sciences and desire to show support to his affiliated charities.
• The Duke of Edinburgh has kept a very low public profile since his retirement from public duty in 2017.
• This follows royal news that the Duchess of Cambridge wrote an emotional letter to a cause close to her heart.

Prince Philip thanked essential frontline workers on Monday, who have been making sure the country runs as normally as possible.

But royal expert Ingrid Seward has said that it was very unusual for Prince Philip to make such a public intervention.

She said that rather than simply trying to reach out to the nation, Prince Philip was showing his support to his affiliated charities.

She said, 'He’s always been interested in science, it’s always been a passion and he’ll be very interested by it all and the rush to try and find a vaccine.

'He’ll be watching everything with keen interest.'

What did Prince Philip's statement say?

In his statement, Prince Philip said, 'As we approach World Immunisation Week, I wanted to recognise the vital and urgent work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic.

‘By those in the medical and scientific professions, at universities and research institutions, all united in working to protect us from Covid-19.

'On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home, I also wanted to thank all key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues.

'The staff and volunteers working in food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services going, and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected.’