Royal-watchers believe Britain's Queen Elizabeth will never retire -- but her husband will.

Buckingham Palace says Prince Philip, who turns 96 next month, will give up his royal duties later this year.

A surprise gathering of the Queen's staff took place inside Buckingham Palace Thursday morning, reports CBS News correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti.

People were brought in from all over the country, raising concerns over the health of the Queen, but all focus turned to Prince Philip, who announced his upcoming retirement.

The Duke of Edinburgh was last seen just Wednesday at a sports ceremony In London. We now know it's one of the last engagements he will make as Prince.

In a statement, the palace said, "His Royal Highness... has decided that he will no longer carry out public engagements from the autumn of this year."

However, the statement said the 91-year-old Queen will carry on her full schedule, as normal.

Philip has been a steadfast companion of Her Majesty for more than 70 years. The two met when they were just children.

As Prince, he provides her support and -- from time to time -- controversy. He has a reputation of occasional political incorrectness.

Philip may be the oldest member of the royal family, but he's still involved in more than 700 organizations. This retirement from public life follows a lifetime of devotion to the monarchy.