Queen Elizabeth cancels traditional pre-Christmas lunch with royal family amid U.K. COVID surge: source

As COVID rates continue to rise in the U.K., government advisers have recommended scaling back pre-holiday gatherings.

"The decision is a precautionary one as it is felt to put too many people’s Christmas arrangements at risk if it went ahead," a source told Fox News. "While there is regret that it is canceled, there is a belief it is the right thing to do for all concerned."

Buckingham Palace wouldn't comment. But as COVID rates continue to rise in the U.K., government advisers have recommended scaling back pre-holiday gatherings.