The UK's data protection agency is “assessing” reports that a member of staff at a London hospital allegedly tried to access the sensitive medical records of Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, during her stay in January.
The Daily Mirror tabloid reports that The London Clinic hospital, where the Princess of Wales spent 13 nights following planned abdominal surgery in January, has launched an investigation into claims that her confidentiality had been breached.
In a written statement to CNN the UK Information Commissioner's Office, which is the UK's independent regulator for Data Protection and Freedom of Information, confirmed that it has “received a report of a breach and is assessing the information provided.”
The London Clinic has not yet responded to the company's questions. CNN on the matter, but in a statement to the Daily Mirror, said he declined to comment on the alleged breach.
“We firmly believe that all of our patients, regardless of their status, deserve complete privacy and confidentiality regarding their medical information,” the hospital said.
Citing an unnamed hospital source, The Daily Mirror reports that “at least one member of staff was caught trying to access the 42-year-old patient’s notes” and that the entire medical team was left completely shocked and disturbed by the allegations.”
Hospital staff alerted the palace immediately after discovering the alleged attempt and promised to carry out a full investigation, the Mirror adds.
When asked by CNN Kensington Palace said: “This is a matter for the London Clinic.”
It is unclear whether the London Metropolitan Police have been notified or whether any criminal investigation is ongoing and the CNN is awaiting details on its involvement, if any, in the matter.
The princess, known as Kate, has been at the center of intense speculation in the UK since Kensington Palace announced that she had undergone planned abdominal surgery without giving specific details in January. No further information was revealed leading to intense speculation and scrutiny about the royal family.
On Tuesday (19), another UK newspaper, The Sun, published a video – taken by a member of the public – showing a smiling Kate walking alongside her husband, Prince William.
Speculation and conspiracies grew on social media platforms after a photo released on Mother's Day showing the smiling princess and her children was digitally edited. The Palace released a statement at the time, saying Kate had experimented with editing software and apologized for the confusion caused.
Since then, more photos, believed to have been edited, have come under review by news and photo organizations.
Source: CNN Brasil
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