At the end of Queen Elizabeth ’s II State Funeral today, Monday September 19, there will be a two-minute silence at approximately 11.55am. Taxi drivers and those travelling on public transport across the UK are expected to observe the minute silence, with some pulling over “when safe and practical to do so”.
The Government states: “To pay our respects to Her Majesty The Queen this silence will be observed in all UK government buildings. Devolved administrations will issue instructions in their estates and others as necessary.
“Local authorities, businesses, organisations and individuals may choose to join us in observing this silence.” Motorists planning on making a journey during this period may want to avoid being on the road from 11:50am.
No formal advice for public motorists has been issued however drivers should be aware that the rules of the road still apply and as the Highway Code states it is illegal to stop on any carriageway. It states : "You MUST NOT stop on any carriageway, emergency area, hard shoulder, slip road, central reservation or verge except in an emergency, or when told to do so by the police, traffic officers, an emergency sign or by red flashing light signals."
Drivers in London have been warned to avoid the city’s centre as a large number of roads are closed for the ceremony. Most public transport services across the UK are expected to observe the silence.
Transport for London has announced that London buses will pull over to observe the two-minute silence if safe to do so. It said in a statement: “Buses will pull over if it is safe and practical to do so and will switch their engines off. Services across London Underground, London Overground, DLR, London Trams and the Elizabeth line will also take part.
“Announcements to customers will be made just before the minute silence and services will continue to run. Taxis and private hire drivers and passengers are also invited to observe the minute silence.”
Many public transport providers across the country are following suit. Transport for Greater Manchester said: “Metrolink services will pause at 11.50am, and will resume again following the completion of the two-minute silence.
“Passengers on board will be notified when the silence begins. The silence will also be observed at railway stations and at transport interchanges.”
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