King Charles III has declared the day of his mother's funeral to be a bank holiday. Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully on Thursday (September 8), aged 96.
The King approved the bank holiday during the meeting of the Accession Council at St James's Palace this morning (Saturday), where his declaration took place. A date for the funeral is yet to be confirmed.
It is expected to be confirmed later today. The announcement was made as members of the Privy Council gathered for the declaration.
Prime Ministers and notable politicians were among those who witnessed history being made. Making his declaration, the King paid tribute to his mother, the Queen.
He said: “My lords, ladies and gentlemen, it is my most sorrowful duty to announce to you the death of my beloved mother the Queen. I know how deeply you, the entire nation, and I think I may say the whole world, sympathise with me in the irreparable loss we’ve all suffered.
“It is the greatest consolation to me to know of the sympathy expressed by so many to my sister and brothers and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss. To all of us as a family, as to this kingdom and the wider family of nations of which it is a part, my mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.
"My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life."
We have turned comments off on this story but you can share your tribute in our online condolence book.
READ NEXT:
- His Majesty King Charles III releases first statement since becoming Britain's monarch
- The day-by-day plan for all the key events following the Queen's death
- When does Prince Charles become King following the death of Queen Elizabeth?
- Huge crowds gather outside Buckingham Palace to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II
