The second son of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands has been admitted to the Wellington Hospital in London, the Government Information Service has confirmed. The private hospital has a neurological rehabilitation department.

Prince Friso was taken from hospital in Innsbruck, Austria and was flown by air ambulance to the British capital. It is said that there are no suitable clinics to care for the prince in the Netherlands. Members of the royal family were reportedly in London to meet the prince on his arrival.

The prince suffered severe brain damage after he was trapped under an avalanche while skiing a fortnight ago. He has been in a coma since the accident. The prognosis is gloomy - doctors say he may never regain consciousness.

Family stability

Prince Friso made his home in London a number of years ago and lives there with his wife, Princess Mabel, and their two daughters. The Government Information Service says the royal family chose the Wellington Hospital based on expert advice and that, in his present condition, the prince can be best cared for there. London is also thought to offer his children the best chance of continuity and stability.

Meanwhile, it has been announced that Queen Beatrix will be resuming her duties from next Monday. All engagements are scheduled to go ahead as normal, including her state visit to Luxembourg planned for 20 to 22 March and her traditional visits to Dutch towns for the Dutch national Queen’s Day holiday on 30 April. 

Until Monday, Queen Beatrix will stay in London to be with Prince Friso and Princess Mabel.