Pregnant Kate Too Ill For Official Malta Trip

The Duchess of Cambridge will not travel to Malta for her first official solo overseas visit because of acute morning sickness.

Kate is suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum - just like when she carried Prince George.

The family decided to cancel the Malta visit in consultation with the Duchess's doctors.

Her husband, the Duke of Cambridge, will take her place.

In a statement Kensington Palace said: "The Duchess of Cambridge will no longer visit Malta this weekend. The Duke of Cambridge will undertake the visit instead.

"Her Royal Highness continues to suffer from the effects of Hyperemesis Gravidarum. The decision not to travel was taken by the Duke and Duchess on the advice of the Duchess's doctors.

"The Duke is honoured to represent Her Majesty The Queen on the visit, which commemorates the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence.

"The visit itinerary remains unchanged."

Kate and William were forced to announce the pregnancy earlier this month before the 12-week period because of the Duchess' illness.

The illness causes severe vomiting and can lead to dehydration, weight loss and a build-up of toxins in the blood or urine.

It affects 3.5 out of each 1,000 pregnancies.

The Duchess had been due to visit Malta's national library to see letters from British monarchs Henry VIII and George II.

She would have also taken part in Independence Day celebrations and a number of walkabouts.

The timing of the pregnancy announcement led to speculation the second royal baby would be delivered in April.