The UK's information watchdog said it is assessing reports that hospital staff attempted to view Kate Middleton's private medical records while the Princess of Wales was admitted for an abdominal surgery in London.

The private hospital in central London, The London Clinic, where the 42-year-old was treated in January is said to have launched its own investigation into the claims. According to a report in the 'Daily Mirror', at least one member of staff at the hospital had allegedly tried to access Princess Kate's medical notes.