What Will Happen When Queen Elizabeth II Dies? | Business Insider

Summary

Operation London Bridge is the code name for the extensive plan that will be executed upon the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Her death will trigger immediate changes, from the announcement of her passing to the ceremonial and national mourning period. The Queen’s eldest son, Charles, will become king, and the UK will undergo profound shifts, including changes to currency, stamps, and the national anthem. The royal family’s future could also be reshaped, with some countries potentially moving towards republics. This event marks the end of an era for the British monarchy and will be a momentous occasion worldwide.

Takeaways

• 😀 Operation London Bridge is the plan for the days and weeks following Queen Elizabeth II's passing.
• 😀 The Queen reigned for 70 years, the longest reign in British history, witnessing numerous major events and global shifts.
• 😀 Her death will bring significant changes not only to the UK but potentially to the wider world and Commonwealth.
• 😀 The message 'London Bridge is down' will be delivered to the acting UK prime minister to trigger the operation.
• 😀 The death will be officially announced with a black-edged notice at Buckingham Palace and a newsflash across media outlets.
• 😀 BBC and other media will immediately switch to coverage dedicated to the Queen's passing, with a respectful dress code.
• 😀 On the day of her death, King Charles will become the new monarch, and businesses may close as a sign of respect.
• 😀 King Charles will embark on a UK tour to visit the capitals of Edinburgh, Belfast, and Cardiff.
• 😀 The Queen’s coffin will lie in state at Westminster Hall for four days before a state funeral in Westminster Abbey.
• 😀 The funeral, expected to occur 10-12 days after the Queen's death, will be marked by a national moment of silence and bank holidays.
• 😀 Post-funeral, the UK will see changes such as the issuance of new currency, stamps, passports, and a switch to 'God Save the King' as the national anthem.
• 😀 The Queen’s passing could lead to further republican sentiment in the Commonwealth, especially in countries like Australia.
• 😀 The UK's economy will be impacted by the costs of the funeral and coronation, estimated to run into billions of pounds.

Q & A

What is Operation London Bridge?

Operation London Bridge is the code name for the plan implemented following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. It outlines the series of steps and procedures to be followed in the aftermath of her passing, including the announcement, mourning period, funeral arrangements, and transition of power.

Who will immediately inform the prime minister of the Queen's death?

The Queen's private secretary, The Right Honorable Edward Young, will immediately inform the acting prime minister with the message 'London Bridge is down.'

What happens immediately after the death of Queen Elizabeth II?

After the Queen’s death, Operation London Bridge is activated. This includes notifying international leaders, marking the death publicly, and transitioning the UK into a period of national mourning. The Queen’s eldest son, Charles, will immediately become king.

What is the significance of the phrase 'London Bridge is down'?

The phrase 'London Bridge is down' is the official code used to signal the death of Queen Elizabeth II. It triggers the immediate implementation of Operation London Bridge, informing the government and other key stakeholders about the death.

How will the British media respond to the Queen’s death?

Upon the Queen’s death, the British media will switch to dedicated coverage. BBC will change its branding to black, and newsreaders will wear black clothing as a sign of respect. All other TV and radio programming will be suspended in favor of news updates.

What will happen on the day after the Queen’s death?

The day after the Queen’s death, King Charles will address the nation in his first official speech as monarch. Additionally, a 41-gun salute will be held in Hyde Park to honor the new king.

What is the timeline for the Queen’s funeral?

The Queen’s funeral is expected to take place 10 to 12 days after her death. During this time, the Queen’s coffin will lie in state at Westminster Hall, and the public will be allowed to pay their respects before the funeral service at Westminster Abbey.

How will the UK economy be affected by the Queen’s death?

The UK economy will face significant costs due to multiple public holidays, funeral expenses, and the subsequent coronation of King Charles. The closure of businesses and stock exchanges, as well as the expenses surrounding the funeral and mourning, will contribute to the economic impact.

What changes will occur in the UK after the Queen’s death?

After the Queen’s death, various symbolic and practical changes will occur, including the replacement of the Queen’s portrait on currency and stamps, the changing of police and military uniforms, and the national anthem being adjusted to 'God Save the King.'

How might the Queen’s death influence other Commonwealth nations?

The Queen's passing could potentially accelerate republican movements in Commonwealth nations, particularly in countries like Australia. There is growing support for Australia to become a republic, and other nations may follow suit, which could weaken the British monarchy's influence.