Official guidance for the public, institutaions and businesses during the period of National Mourning following the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been issued today (9th September, 2022) by the Cabinet Office. The guidance is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-demise-of-her-majesty-queen-elizabeth-ii-national-mourning-guidance/the-demise-of-her-majesty-queen-elizabeth-ii-national-mourning-guidance
The guidance issued by the Cabinet Office is intended to provide the public, businesses and institutions with an explanation of National Mourning, and outline some practical advice on how you or your organisation may wish to observe public mourning during this period.
The official guidance says that a period of National Mourning for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has now started. The period of National Mourning will continue until the end of the day of the State Funeral. National Mourning is a period of time for reflection in response to the demise of the Sovereign, or other member of the Royal Family or a very prominent person in national life.
The guidance covers, among other matters:
- Half-masting of flags;
- How observing mourning can affect the continuation of business, events and sporting fixtures;
- Floral tributes; and
- Books of condolence.
Nevertheless, mourning is very personal and it is anticipated that individuals, families, communities and organisations may want to mark Her Majesty’s demise in their own way. There is no expectation on the public or organisations to observe specific behaviours during the mourning period.
Public services will continue as usual, although there may be some changes to service availability on the day of the State Funeral.
