Live Updates
Our live coverage of the death of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II has moved here.
America turned its eyes to the old country on Thursday, after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. When news of her sudden decline broke, television networks broke into programing – almost as if a US President had died. In New York, the US Open tennis tournament and the United Nations held moments of silence to honor her passing. In Washington, flags on official buildings were lowered to half-staff.
During a reign that lasted seven decades, the Queen and the royal family conjured fascination, affection and even some jealousy in a nation that broke away from the throne almost 250 years ago.
She met 13 US Presidents, starting with a visit to Washington to see Harry Truman before she became Queen. (Her first official head-of-state meeting with a US commander-in-chief was with Dwight Eisenhower). President Joe Biden, who stopped by the British embassy in Washington on Thursday to sign a book of condolences, was the last President to hold official talks with the Queen.
In a statement, Biden sent “our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, who are not only mourning their Queen, but their dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world.”
And amid the official rituals of remembrance, there were some smaller, but poignant gestures. In Santa Monica, California, patrons showed up at “Ye Olde King’s Head” a restaurant and gift shop, to buy memorabilia and share memories of the Queen.
Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen extended her condolences to the royal family, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth in a tweet.
“Taiwan remembers and celebrates her life of leadership and service, which set an example for people around the world,” Tsai tweeted.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol tweeted his “deepest condolences to the people of the United Kingdom for the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”
“She had a strong belief in the cause of human freedom and left great legacies of dignity,” Yoon wrote.
“Her kind heart and good deed will remain in our memories.”
“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a stalwart of our times,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet Friday morning.
“She provided inspiring leadership to her nation and people. She personified dignity and decency in public life,” Modi wrote.
In a separate tweet Modi reflected on his meetings with the Queen during his visits to the United Kingdom.
“During one of the meetings she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi gifted her on her wedding,” he wrote. “I will always cherish that gesture.”
Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong expressed his sadness over the death of Queen Elizabeth II in a post on his Facebook page.
“Her Majesty’s reign saw one of the longest periods of peace and prosperity in the history of the United Kingdom. Throughout her life, she steadfastly served the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. She performed her duties with devotion, grace, and humility. Her contributions to the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and indeed to the world will be recorded in history, and she will always be remembered fondly as a great world leader.
“Her Majesty also left a significant mark on Singapore’s history and our longstanding close relations with the United Kingdom,” he continued.
Lee extended his condolences to King Charles III, all members of The Royal Family, British Prime Minister Liz Truss, and the British people.
He also shared a photo with Her Majesty, noting that they met on several occasions, most recently in 2018 during the Commonwealth heads of government meeting in London.
Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud has received the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II ” with great sadness,” according to Saudi state-run Al-Ekhbariya Television.
“Queen Elizabeth was a model of leadership that will be immortalized in history, and we remember with appreciation the efforts of the deceased in strengthening the relations of friendship and cooperation between our two friendly countries,” he said.
Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is “saddened by the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II,” saying she “devoted her life serving her country,” according to Saudi state-run Al-Ekhbariya Television.
“Queen Elizabeth was an example of wisdom, love and peace,” Salman said as cited by Al-Ekhbariya.
The websites of the British Monarchy and Prince of Wales has now returned to the homepage, in black and white, with profiles of The King and Queen Consort — as well as a link to send messages of condolence.
Harry and Meghan’s Archewell remains as a blacked-out landing page, with messages in memory of the Queen.
Earlier today: All three websites became blacked-out landing page, with messages in memory of the Queen. A message at the bottom of the main royal’s website said: “The official website of the Royal Family is temporarily unavailable while appropriate changes are made.”
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited the British embassy in Washington, DC, on Thursday to pay their respects and address embassy staff following Queen Elizabeth II’s death.
“We mourn for all of you. She was a great lady. We’re so delighted we got to meet her,” Biden said after he and the first lady signed a condolence book for the Queen.
He signed the condolence book for Queen Elizabeth II just after 6 p.m. ET at a table with a bouquet of flowers on one side and a photograph of Queen Elizabeth II on the other. The firstlady also presented a bouquet of flowers to British Ambassador to the US Karen Pierce who greeted them at the embassy.
After signing the book, in which the President took several minutes to write out a message, the Bidens addressed embassy staff.
“Our hearts are with you,” the first lady said.
“As my mother would say, God love you,” President Biden said to staff and thanked them, according to the print pool. He then walked out of the room, holding the first lady’s hand.
Biden’s motorcade is now rolling to the National Harbor in Maryland where he will attend a DNC fundraiser.
With the death of Queen Elizabeth II, her son, Charles, immediately became King.
Here’s what we know about the British royal family’s line of succession.
King Charles
Born: November 14, 1948
What to know: First in the line of succession, Charles was the longest serving British monarch-in-waiting; he’s been the heir apparent since the age of 3. As president of The Prince’s Trust and the Royal Shakespeare Company, and president or patron of more than 400 charitable organizations, the Prince of Wales is the first royal heir to earn a university degree.
More key relatives: Diana, Princess of Wales, to whom he was married from 1981 to 1996. They had two children together: Princes William and Harry.
Diana died in 1997 following a car accident in Paris, along with boyfriend Dodi Fayed and driver Henri Paul.
In 2005, the Prince of Wales married Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge
Born: June 21, 1982
What to know: Prince William, next line to the throne after his father Charles, has achieved the highest educational degree – Masmer of Arta – of any member of the royal family. He served in the military from 2006 to 2013, participating in more than 150 helicopter search and rescue operations.
More key relatives: Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, whom he married in 2011. The couple have three children together: Prince George, 9; Princess Charlotte, 7; and Prince Louis, 4.
The family live in Adelaide Cottage, a four-bedroom property in the grounds of Windsor Castle, Berkshire, about 25 miles from London. The Cambridges’ London residence, Kensington Palace, will remain the family’s principal residence, however, a royal source told CNN in August.
Prince George of Cambridge
Born: July 22, 2013
What to know: When Prince George arrived, he became third in line to inherit the throne. If he becomes king after the reigns of his grandfather Prince Charles and his father Prince William, George will be the 43rd monarch since William the Conqueror.
But for now, he’s still brushing up on his education: George currently attends Lambrook School near Windsor along with his younger sister, Charlotte and his younger brother, Louis.
View more here.
British actors and artists who were honored by Queen Elizabeth II mourned her death Thursday.
Singer Elton John shared his sadness and offered condolences on Instagram.
“Along with the rest of the nation, I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s passing,” John wrote in an Instagram post. “She was an inspiring presence to be around, and lead the country through some of our greatest, and darkest, moments with grace, decency and a genuine caring warmth,” he said.
“Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day, and I will miss her dearly,” he added.
John was knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 1998 for services to music and his charitable works.
Dame Helen Mirren, the English actor who won an Oscar for portraying Queen Elizabeth in the 2006 film “The Queen,” also paid tribute to the late monarch.
“I am proud to be an Elizabethan. We mourn a woman, who, with or without the crown, was the epitome of nobility,” Mirren wrote in an Instagram post.
Mirren also played Queen Elizabeth in the Broadway production of “The Audience” in 2015. She was appointed Dame by Queen Elizabeth in 2003 for her services to drama.
Actor Sir Patrick Stewart also remembered the late monarch when asked about her passing at a “Star Trek Day” red carpet event.
“Her legacy will be examined. It’s been a very traditional legacy, I feel. I’m sad, I met her several times, she gave me my knighthood, and I was delighted. I wanted her to see the century, having been England’s longest serving monarch. I felt that would have been perfect —100 years on the planet. But I’m excited about, if it is to be, we don’t know that for certain, Prince Charles who is the one next to ascend the throne. I am looking forward very much to what he’s going to do,” he said.
Stewart was knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 2010.
Queen Elizabeth II described being left with a “huge void in her life” after her husband Prince Philip’s death, their son Prince Andrew said last April.
Speaking to media after attending a service at the chapel at Royal Lodge Windsor, the Duke of York said, “I feel very sorry and supportive of my mother who is feeling it probably more than anybody else.”
Philip, the lifelong companion of the Queen and the longest-serving consort in British history, died at the age of 99 on April 9, 2021.
“He was a remarkable man, I loved him as a father. He was so calm. If you had a problem, he would think about it,” Andrew said. “He was always someone you could go to.”
The news of Philip’s death was met with an outpouring of tributes from around the world, including messages from every living US President and other world leaders.
The royal family themselves were “all feeling a great sense of loss,” Andrew said. “We’ve lost almost the grandfather of the nation.”
Asked at the time how his mother was feeling, the duke replied: “The Queen as you would expect is an incredibly stoic person. And she described his passing as a miracle. And she’s contemplating.”
“She described it as having left a huge void in her life,” he said, adding that the family was “rallying around to make sure that we’re there to support her.”
Read more here.
The French Presidential Palace mourned the death of Queen Elizabeth II in a long and emotional statement Thursday, thanking her for the role she played in modern history and Franco-British relationship.
“She held a special status in France and a special place in the hearts of the French people,” Élysée Palace said in a statement.
The Queen “loved France, which loved her back,” it added.
Queen Elizabeth II held the record for most visits to the Élysée Palace for a foreign sovereign. At various occasions, including the six state visits she made to France, the Queen has met with all eight presidents of the French Fifth Republic, which was established in 1959, according to the statement.
The Queen was fluent in French and made several public speeches in French while visiting the country.
“She who stood with the giants of the twentieth century on the path of history has now left to join them,” the statement said.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern remembered Queen Elizabeth II in a national address after her passing, saying that she had come to define “notions of service, charity, and consistency.”
“Her commitment to her role and to all of us has been without question and unwavering, ” Ardern said.
Ardern also announced that New Zealand would be moving into a period of official mourning. Flags will be flown at half-staff. Preparations for a state memorial are underway and will be held after the Queen’s official funeral in the UK.
“There is no doubt that a chapter is closing today. And with that, we share our thanks for an incredible woman who we were lucky enough to call our queen,” Ardern said.
The Queen was New Zealand’s head of state.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has offered the country’s sympathy and deepest condolences at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
In a statement, Albanese lauded a “long life devoted to duty, family, faith and service.”
As head of state, Queen Elizabeth visited Australia 16 times.
“From her famous first trip to Australia, the only reigning sovereign to ever visit, it was clear Her Majesty held a special place in her heart for Australia,” the prime minister wrote. “Fifteen more tours before cheering crowds in every part of our country confirmed the special place she held in ours.”
In 1999 Australia held a referendum on whether to remove the Queen as head of state. The referendum was defeated.
Albanese noted a relationship between Australia and the British monarchy which “matured and evolved throughout Her Majesty’s reign.”
“The Queen greeted each and every change with understanding, good grace and an abiding faith in the Australian people’s good judgment,” Albanese noted.
Governor-General David Hurley, the British monarch’s representative in Australia, will address the nation later Friday.
In a statement, Hurley described Queen Elizabeth as “a truly remarkable person” who showed “selflessness and unwavering commitment to the people whom she served. To us.”
Police have removed barriers blocking access to the gates to Balmoral Castle to allow the public to lay flowers for the Queen, according to PA news agency.
Others are outside Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle to mourn the death of Queen.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who she said was “loved and admired” by the people of Scotland.
“Like everyone across Scotland, the United Kingdom, indeed the world, I feel a deep sense of sadness on the death of Her Majesty the Queen. On behalf of the people of Scotland, I offer my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the King, the Queen Consort and to the entire royal family,” Sturgeon said in a televised address on Thursday.
Sturgeon recounted how the Queen was a “great constant in our national life” for 70 years, speaking of how she “inspired” the Scottish public.
“And by all accounts, Her Majesty was rarely happier than when she was here in Scotland at her beloved Balmoral. A fact I have been privileged to observe personally,” the first minister continued.
She expressed her hope that members of the royal family will find “comfort” in knowing that the queen “spent her final days in a place that she loved so much.”
Pope Francis mourned the death of Queen Elizabeth II, praising her “steadfast witness of faith in Jesus Christ” in a telegram to King Charles III, the new monarch of the United Kingdom.
“Commending her noble soul to the merciful goodness of our Heavenly Father, I assure Your Majesty of my prayers that Almighty God will sustain you with his unfailing grace as you now take up your high responsibilities as King,” the Pope wrote.
“Upon you and all who cherish the memory of your late mother, I invoke an abundance of divine blessings as a pledge of comfort and strength in the Lord,” he added.
UK Prime Minister Liz Truss has spoken to King Charles III after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, according to a Downing Street spokesperson.
Truss was informed of the Queen’s death at 4.30 p.m. local time (11:30 a.m. ET), according to the spokesperson. The prime minister was told the news by Cabinet Secretary Simon Case.
Truss is expected to chair a meeting of ministers at 9 p.m. local time Thursday (4 p.m. ET).
With the death of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, every detail of the next fortnight has been planned and rehearsed to the finest detail — and was even signed off by the monarch herself.
There have been regular meetings for decades between the many agencies involved, from central and local government departments to military and religious authorities and representatives of the other 14 countries where she was also head of state.
The Union Flag will be lowered on public buildings across the United Kingdom. The Royal Standard, which is the monarch’s personal flag, is never lowered because the monarch never dies.
While many of the specifics are yet to be released, here’s what we know right now.
King Charles III
Prince Charles automatically became King upon the death of his mother. He will be known as King Charles III. He is now head of state not just in the UK but in 14 other Commonwealth realms including Australia and Canada. He will also become head of the 56-member Commonwealth, although that is not a hereditary position, after his succession to the role was agreed by Commonwealth leaders at a meeting in London in 2018.
He has become head of the British Armed Forces, the judiciary and the civil service, and he is the Supreme Governor of the Church of England. He is the Fount of Honour, which means all honors, such as knighthoods, will now be given in his name.
Gun salutes and title changes
The Accession Council will meet at the 500-year-old St James’s Palace in London. The Queen’s death will be formally announced, and the new sovereign will be proclaimed.
The Garter King of Arms will read the Proclamation from the palace balcony and gun salutes will echo across the capital.
Prince William is now first in line to the throne.
There will be gun salutes across London — one round for every year of Elizabeth’s life — and a broadcast by the new King will be played out.
Funeral arrangements
As monarch, Queen Elizabeth is automatically granted a publicly funded state funeral, and details will be released in the coming days. The Queen died at Balmoral Castle, her residence in Scotland, so over the coming days arrangements will be made for her to be transported back to England.
Read a more detailed rundown of next steps here.
CNN’s David Wilkinson, Susannah Cullinane, Peter Wilkinson and Laura Smith-Spark contributed reporting to this post.
Since 1952, there have been seven Popes, 14 US Presidents and 15 British Prime Ministers. But there’s only been one British monarch.
Queen Elizabeth II reigned for more than 70 years — longer than any British monarch in history.
She was 25 years old when she ascended to the throne.
Elizabeth was born April 21, 1926, in London. She is held here by her mother, also named Elizabeth. Her father would later become King George VI.
Queen Elizabeth II with her oldest son, Prince Charles, in 1969. Charles, immediately became King of the United Kingdom upon the death of his mother.
Elizabeth listens to her great-grandson, Prince George, outside a church where George’s sister, Charlotte, was being christened in July 2015.
The Queen rides a horse in Windsor, England, in May 2020. It was her first public appearance since the first coronavirus lockdown began in the United Kingdom.
The Queen drives her Range Rover as she attends the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Windsor, England, in July 2021.
Check out more photos from extraordinary life of Britain’s longest-serving sovereign in our gallery here.
Prince William, King Charles III’s older son, is now heir apparent.
He does not automatically become Prince of Wales; that title is in the gift of the king.
William and his wife Kate have taken on the additional titles of Duke and Duchess of Cornwall – which were previously held by Charles and Camilla – making them The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has arrived at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, according to the UK’s PA Media news agency.
He was seen being driven in a convoy of cars heading through the gates at Balmoral Castle.
Britain’s former Prime Minister Theresa May released a statement paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
“Her Majesty devoted herself unreservedly to a life of service. She was respected and admired not only by her own people but far beyond our family of nations,” she tweeted. “As our longest reigning monarch, Her Majesty witnessed tremendous change, moving adroitly with the times but always providing stability and reassurance. She was our constant throughout this great Elizabethan era.”
Fourteen US Presidents served during the Queen’s seven-decade reign, and the living former Presidents are releasing statements of condolence following her death.
Former President Barack Obama, in a joint statement with first lady Michelle Obama, said they are “awed by her legacy of tireless, dignified public service.”
“Michelle and I were lucky enough to come to know Her Majesty, and she meant a great deal to us,” the Obamas wrote.
“Back when we were just beginning to navigate life as President and First Lady, she welcomed us to the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity. Time and again, we were struck by her warmth,” they added.
Former President Donald Trump also issued a statement on the death of the Queen, writing in part, “her leadership and enduring diplomacy secured and advanced alliances with the United States and countries around the world. However, she will always be remembered for her faithfulness to her country and her unwavering devotion to her fellow countrymen and women.”
“Melania and I will always cherish our time together with the Queen, and never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom, and wonderful sense of humor. What a grand and beautiful lady she was—there was nobody like her!” Trump also said.
Meanwhile, 43rd President George Bush wrote that “spending time at Buckingham Palace, and having tea with Her Majesty – and her Corgis – is among our fondest memories of the presidency.”
“Laura and I were honored to have known Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was a woman of great intellect, charm, and wit,” he wrote.
“Queen Elizabeth ably led England through dark moments with her confidence in her people and her vision for a brighter tomorrow. Our world benefitted from her steady resolve, and we are grateful for her decades of service as sovereign,” Bush added.
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton marked Queen Elizabeth’s passing by remembering her as a someone with “unfailing grace, dignity, and genuine care for the welfare of all its people.”
“In sunshine or storm, she was a source of stability, serenity, and strength,” they said in a statement provided to CNN by a Clinton spokesperson.
Flags at the White House and other federal building and military facilities, according to a proclamation by US President Joe Biden on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The proclamation also orders US embassies overseas, to fly flags at half-staff “until the day of internment.”
In a televised video statement, UK Opposition leader Keir Starmer mourned the end of Britain’s “Elizabethan era” following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday.
Starmer, who is the leader of the UK’s Labour Party, paid tribute to the UK’s longest serving and “greatest ever monarch.”
“Around the world, people are united and united in celebrating her life. This togetherness is a reminder of what she achieved, a reminder of our shared values, which I know will be upheld by her beloved son, Charles, our new king. So as our great Elizabethan era comes to an end, we will honor the late Queen’s memory by keeping alive the values of public service she embodied,” Starmer said.
He stressed that the British public will “always treasure Queen Elizabeth II’s life of service and devotion.”
The website of the British Monarchy has gone dark following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The website notes that it’s temporarily unavailable and currently has an image paying homage to the late Queen.
A message at the bottom of the main royal’s website reads: “The official website of the Royal Family is temporarily unavailable while appropriate changes are made.”
“The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.
The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.
Thursday, 8 September 2022,” the website read.
Additionally, the websites of Prince of Wales and Harry and Meghan’s Archewell have also become a blacked-out landing page, with messages in memory of the Queen.
The Eiffel Tower lights, the hallmark of Paris, will be turned off tonight “in tribute to the [Q]ueen Elizabeth II,” the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, said in a post on Twitter on Thursday.
As crowds gather outside Windsor Castle to mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II, people are commemorating her legacy and some are even remembering the times they interacted with Her Majesty.
One woman told CNN it was “amazing” when she saw the Queen at an opening of a hospice a few months ago. She said the Queen waved at everyone there and gave the crowd a little smirk and said “thank you” when they told her she looked great.
“She just symbolizes everything. I’m such a big royalist. I lived in Windsor all my life so just growing up with my family loving her and kind of instilling that on us, really,” she said.
She said the Queen was “absolutely” a uniting force, adding “she is going to be missed.”
Jonathan Windsor, from Bristol said he found out about the Queen’s death through a notification on his phone while he was at a pub.
“We toasted Her Majesty on the news. I can’t emphasize how sad our country is with the terrible news,” he told CNN.
Another person, Judy Anzel from London, said her mother called her to tell her about the Queen’s passing.
“Of course this was something we were all expecting to come at some point, but it’s different when it actually happens,” Anzel said, adding “the UK has been in a tough position as of late” and because of that, the death is “going to hit it especially hard at this time.”
CNN’s Paul Murphy contributed reporting to this post.
King Charles III is expected to make an address tomorrow, a royal spokesperson told CNN.
US President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden released a statement on the death of Queen Elizabeth II, calling her a “steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations.”
“Today, the thoughts and prayers of people all across the United States are with the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth in their grief. We send our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, who are not only mourning their Queen, but their dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world,” the Bidens wrote in the statement.
“Queen Elizabeth II was a stateswoman of unmatched dignity and constancy who deepened the bedrock Alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States. She helped make our relationship special,” they said.
“We were honored that she extended her hospitality to us in June 2021 during our first overseas trip as President and First Lady, where she charmed us with her wit, moved us with her kindness, and generously shared with us her wisdom. … She helped Americans commemorate both the anniversary of the founding of Jamestown and the bicentennial of our independence. And she stood in solidarity with the United States during our darkest days after 9/11, when she poignantly reminded us that ‘Grief is the price we pay for love,’” the statement continued.
The Bidens said they first met the Queen in 1982 while the President traveled to the UK as part of a Senate delegation.
They said they “look forward to continuing a close friendship with The King and The Queen Consort.”
US Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Douglas Emhoff also offered their condolences on the Queen’s passing.
“Queen Elizabeth II lived an incredible life of service and had a profound impact on countless lives and historic events. We send our condolences to the Royal Family and join the people of the United Kingdom and all those around the world who mourn her loss,” the vice president’s and second gentleman’s Twitter accounts tweeted.
Prince William and Catherine have assumed the titles of Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, according to their official Twitter account. Prince Charles and Camilla were previously known by those titles.
Following the announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s death on Thursday, the bio for Kate and William’s official Twitter account changed to: “The official account of The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge and the Royal Foundation, based at Kensington Palace.”
Prince William and Kate previously held the title of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Queen Elizabeth’s son Charles will rule under the name King Charles III, it has now been confirmed.
Tony Blair, who served as Britain’s prime minister for one decade of the Queen’s 70-year reign, has said “it was our great good fortune to have her reign over us.”
“We have lost not just our monarch but the matriarch of our nation, the figure who more than any other brought our country together, kept us in touch with our better nature, personified everything which makes us proud to be British,” Blair wrote.
Liz Truss concluded her speech outside Downing Street with a call to unite behind Charles, Britain’s new King.
“We offer him our loyalty and devotion, just as his mother devoted so much to so many for so long,” the UK’s new Prime Minister said.
“With the passing of the second Elizabethan age, we usher in a new era in the magnificent history of our great country. Exactly as her Majesty would have wished: by saying the words, ‘God save the King.’”
Watch whole speech:
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted a statement following the announcement that Queen Elizabeth II had died, saying it’s the “country’s saddest day.”
“In the hearts of every one of us there is an ache at the passing of our Queen, a deep and personal sense of loss — far more intense, perhaps, than we expected,” he wrote.
Prime Minister Liz Truss called on Britons to “come together” to support Charles, the United Kingdom’s new King.
“In the difficult days ahead, we will come together with our friends across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the world, to celebrate her extraordinary lifetime of service,” Truss said.
“It is a day of great loss, but Queen Elizabeth II leaves a great legacy.”
“Today the Crown passes, as it has done for more than a thousand years, to our new monarch, our new head of state: His Majesty, King Charles III,” Truss said.
“With the King’s family, we mourn the loss of his mother. And as we mourn, we must come together as a people to support him,” she added. “To help him bear the awesome responsibility that he now carries for us all.”
“Britain is the great country it is today because of her,” UK Prime Minister Liz Truss said outside Downing Street following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
“We are now a modern, thriving, dynamic nation. Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with he stability and the strength that we needed.”
“It’s an extraordinary achievement to have presided with such dignity and grace for 70 years.”
“She was loved and admired by the people in the United Kingdom, and all round the world.
She has been a personal inspiration to me, and to many Britons, the new PM said.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it is “with the heaviest of hearts” that Canada learned of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
“It was with the heaviest of hearts that we learned of the passing of Canada’s longest-reigning Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was a constant presence in our lives – and her service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history,” Trudeau said in a tweet.
Queen Elizabeth II served as Canada’s head of state.
In Ottawa, the flag at Peace Tower could also be seen being lowered after the announcement of the Queen’s death.
Charles, who is now King following Queen Elizabeth II’s death, now has the job of uniting the United Kingdom, Richard Quest, CNN anchor and correspondent, said.
Other than the years where is personal life created scandal, Charles “has served the country loyally and with great dignity over many years,” Quest said on CNN.
One strength Charles has as the monarchy starts its new chapter, Quest said, is his forward thinking.
“He is steeped in the future. He was ahead of the game with environmental issues. He was ahead of the game on climate change. He’s ahead of the game on a lot of thoughts that are now normal — he was suggesting years ago,” Quest said.
“Then he will have the job of uniting the United Kingdom at a time when there are such great fears and unease,” he added.
Britain’s new Prime Minister Liz Truss is giving an address outside Downing Street, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Truss said: “The death of her majesty the Queen is a huge shock to the nation and to the world.”
“Queen Elizabeth II was the rock on which modern Britain was built,” she said. “Our country has grown and flourished under her reign.”
“She was the very spirit of Great Britain, and that spirit will endure.”
Truss met the Queen to formally be appointed Prime Minister on Tuesday, in the monarch’s last engagement before her death. She is the 15th and final Prime Minister to have served under Elizabeth.
Queen Elizabeth’s son and the new King of the United Kingdom, Charles, has released a statement mourning his mother’s death.
He calls it “a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family.”
Reactions are starting to pour in from leaders around the world expressing their sympathy and offering condolences to the Royal family following the passing Queen Elizabeth II.
Here are their statements:
President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins:
“It is with profound regret and a deep personal sadness that I have learnt of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
On behalf of the people of Ireland, may I express my heartfelt sympathy to His Majesty King Charles and to the Royal Family on their very great personal loss. May I offer my deepest condolences to the British people and to the members of the Commonwealth on the loss of a unique, committed and deeply respected Head of State.
Her Majesty served the British people with exceptional dignity. Her personal commitment to her role and extraordinary sense of duty were the hallmarks of her period as Queen, which will hold a unique place in British history.”
Royal House of the Netherlands:
“We remember Queen Elizabeth II with deep respect and great affection. Steadfast and wise, she dedicated her long life to serving the British people. We feel a strong bond with the United Kingdom and its royal family, and we share their sorrow at this time. We are very grateful for our countries close friendship, to which Queen Elizabeth made such an unforgettable contribution,” it said.
From the White House:
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reacted Thursday to the news that Queen Elizabeth II has died at 96, saying that “our hearts and our thoughts” go to the family and the people of the United Kingdom.
“Our hearts and our thoughts go to the family members of the Queen, goes to the people of United Kingdom. I don’t want to get ahead of what the President is going to say,” Jean-Pierre said at the end of the White House press briefing, reacting live to the news of the Queen’s passing.
President of France Emmanuel Macron:
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres:
“I am deeply saddened at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. I extend my sincere condolences to her bereaved family, the Government and people of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the wider Commonwealth of Nations,” Guterres noted in a statement.
“Queen Elizabeth II was a good friend of the United Nations, and visited our New York Headquarters twice, more than fifty years apart. She was deeply committed to many charitable and environmental causes and spoke movingly to delegates at the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow,” he said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky
Zelensky expressed condolences to the entire United Kingdom, saying in a tweet “It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of the 🇺🇦 people, we extend sincere condolences to the @RoyalFamily, the entire United Kingdom and the Commonwealth over this irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi
“The Prime Minister, Mario Draghi, expresses deep condolences for the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth has been the absolute protagonist of world history for the past seventy years,” Draghi expressed in a statement.
“Her spirit of service, her dedication to the UK and the Commonwealth, the deep dignity with which he held his office for such a long period have been a relentless source of admiration for generations. To the Royal Family, to the Governments and to all citizens of the United Kingdom and of the Commonwealth countries, our deepest condolences,” Draghi stated.
Charles immediately became King upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth.
The Royal family referred to Charles as King in announcing the death of Queen Elizabeth. The tweet referred to Camila as the Queen Consort.
As heir apparent since the age of three, he has been the longest serving heir to the throne in British history.
Upon becoming the sovereign, Charles has the option to take any name he chooses for his reign as King. For example, King George VI’s real name was actually Albert. Two previous monarchs have been called Charles.
Charles had already been taking on some of the Queen’s engagements this year as her health had become enough of a concern for her to cancel some of her commitments, including the State Opening of Parliament.
Both Charles and Prince William had been prioritizing the Queen’s diary over theirs. Both of them had been activated as Counsellors of State, where the Queen delegates her sovereign power for specific purposes, and they were obligated to be even more available for those duties.
The Premier League, the top level of the men’s English football league system, tweeted its condolences in the wake of Queen Elizabeth’s death on Thursday, saying in tweet its thoughts are with the royal family and “everyone around the world mourning the loss of Her Majesty.”
One of the football clubs within the league, Manchester United, also posted on Twitter that it “shares the sorrow of the entire nation.”
Chelsea Football Club said on Twitter that it “is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We join those mourning in the UK and across the world.”
Formula 1 said in a statement on its website the organization is “mourning the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”
“For more than seven decades she dedicated her life to public service with dignity and devotion and inspired so many around the world. Formula 1 sends its deepest condolences to the Royal Family and to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth,” Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said in the statement.
Arsenal acknowledged the passing in a tweet as well, saying it will be “taking time to mourn and reflect on Her Majesty’s incredible life and devoted service.
The ongoing professional golf tournament, the BMW PGA Championship being held in Surrey, England, has been suspended for the remainder of the day in honor of Queen Elizabeth’s passing.
A rainbow could be seen over the sky at Windsor Castle as the British flag was lowered after the announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.
Queen Elizabeth II, who has died age 96 after the longest reign in British history, will be mourned around the globe as one of the last monarchs born to a classic age of European royalty, when kings and queens wielded genuine political power.
Elizabeth Alexandra Mary was born in 1926, the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York.
But she didn’t become heir presumptive to the throne until 1937, when her father was crowned King George VI after the scandalous abdication of his older brother — events dramatized in the Oscar-winning film “The King’s Speech” and hit Netflix show “The Crown.”
Wartime freedoms
As World War II erupted, Elizabeth was quietly groomed for statehood.
While living out the Blitz on London in nearby Windsor Castle, she was privately tutored in matters of constitution by Henry Marten, an eccentric yet respected teacher who reputedly kept a pet raven in his study.
She began taking tentative steps into public life in 1940 when, aged 14, she made her first radio broadcast: a speech to children displaced by the conflict. At 16, she was made an honorary colonel of the Grenadier Guards, a British army infantry regiment.
Princess Elizabeth is pictured in 1945 standing by an Auxiliary Territorial Service first aid truck wearing an officer’s uniform.
Wartime offered her certain freedoms beyond the traditional constraints of royal life.
In 1945 she joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service and spent four weeks getting her hands covered in oil and grease as she learned to drive and maintain military vehicles.
When victory was declared in Europe, a uniformed Elizabeth mingled with jubilant crowds outside Buckingham Palace.
Peacetime brought the return of Lieutenant Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, a handsome young naval officer who had, by all accounts, won her heart when she was just 13. The pair married in Westminster Abbey in 1947. Their first son, Charles, was born just over a year later.
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has ordered the Capitol flags to be flown at half-staff after Queen Elizabeth’s death, according to her spokesperson Drew Hammil.
Tearful faces could be seen in outside the gates of Buckingham Palace on Thursday as news spread of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.
Below, crowds gather along the road leading to the palace gates — where a statement announcing her death was just posted, per tradition.
Quiet singing of “God Save the Queen” has broken out across the gathered crowd.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reacted Thursday to the news that Queen Elizabeth II has died at 96, saying that “our hearts and our thoughts” go to the family and the people of the United Kingdom.
“Our hearts and our thoughts go to the family members of the Queen, goes to the people of United Kingdom. I don’t want to get ahead of what the President is going to say,” Jean-Pierre said at the end of the White House press briefing, reacting live to the news of the Queen’s passing.
“My life will always be devoted to your service.”
It was a vow she made repeatedly throughout her record-breaking reign, most recently in a message marking the 70th anniversary of her accession to the throne.
Elizabeth II may not have been born to be monarch, but once fate had intervened, she steadfastly committed her time on earth to duty and service.
Even in the twilight years of her life, as many speculated on whether she might step back or perhaps even abdicate, she remained resolute in her devotion to her role.
As the coronavirus pandemic swept the world in 2020, the Queen and her husband, Prince Philip, retreated from London to Windsor Castle. As in other times of crisis, the nation sought reassurance from the monarch, who evoked wartime references before firmly declaring “we will succeed.”
Keen to remain a presence in public life amid the lockdowns and social distancing measures, she pivoted like many of us did and began working from home, participating in virtual engagements and undertaking more calls.
Following the Duke of Edinburgh’s death in April 2021, she resumed her royal duties with typical steadfastness.
Her first public appearance took place a month after the death of her “strength and stay” with the State Opening of Parliament.
She tested positive for Covid-19 in February 2022, though she continued with some of her light duties despite suffering from mild cold-like symptoms.
In July, she traveled to her private Scottish home of Balmoral for the start of her traditional summer break. On Sept. 6, the Queen received former Prime Minister Boris Johnson at Balmoral Castle as he left office before she greeted Liz Truss to ask her to form a government and become prime minister. The historic audience was the first time the 96-year-old monarch carried out the key duty at her retreat in Aberdeenshire, rather than at London’s Buckingham Palace.
News of her death truly marks the end of an era for the United Kingdom, with most of its people having known no other monarch at their head.
The Queen died peacefully this afternoon, the Royal Family announced on its social media accounts.
Her son Charles, who is now King, will return to London on Friday.
Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch whose rule spanned seven decades, died on Thursday at the age of 96, Buckingham Palace has announced.
Elizabeth ascended to the throne in 1952, on the death of her father, King George VI. She oversaw the last throes of the British empire, weathered global upheaval and domestic scandal, and dramatically modernized the monarchy.
She died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland after doctors said they had become concerned about her health on Thursday.
Elizabeth ruled over the United Kingdom and 14 other Commonwealth realms, and became one of the most recognizable women ever to have lived. Her son, Charles, immediately became King upon her death.
Prince Harry is traveling to Balmoral from London, according to the UK’s PA Media news agency.
The Duke of Sussex was originally scheduled to attend the WellChild Awards in London on Thursday, which celebrates the inspirational qualities of seriously ill children and young people in the United Kingdom.
Harry canceled an appearance at the charity awards ceremony in London to fly to Scotland in the wake of fellow royals who have also travelled to Aberdeenshire, PA reported.
He is on his way to Balmoral separately from other royals but has been in coordination with other family members’ plans, a spokesperson for the Sussexes told CNN earlier on Thursday.
Prince Harry is still en route to Balmoral Castle, CNN royal correspondent Max Foster reports, and the family is likely waiting for him to arrive before any announcements on Queen Elizabeth II are made.
Prince Harry is traveling to Balmoral from London, according to UK’s PA Media news agency.
“We know Prince William’s arrived as well. I think we are only waiting on Prince Harry. We’re relying on local photographers here because you know this has only just happened and they’ve been based up there so we’re waiting to see images come through,” Foster said on CNN. “I think once Prince Harry is in there, whilst he’s not a working role but he’s still a senior member, still very high up in the line of succession. I think they want him there before any announcements were made. It would seem dismissive I think if the announcements were made before they were all inside behind those gates at Balmoral Castle. And then you need a bit of time for them to regroup a well.”
Foster also described the family’s rushed arrival to Balmoral Castle in Scotland earlier Thursday to be with Queen Elizabeth II as news of her declining health broke.
“They normally travel separately. They are all in one car. Their faces are stark. Prince Andrew in the front very close to the Queen and Prince Edward also increasingly close to the Queen in recent years because he has been taking on more and more responsibilities and you know we just have to look at those faces and try to read what we can into them and they are all in the same car and they didn’t have to be. It feels to me like they… rushed to get there as quickly as possible and this was the most efficient way,” Foster said in reference to a photo of members of the Royal family arriving at the castle.
Dozens of onlookers, tourists and well-wishers of Queen Elizabeth II gathered outside Buckingham Palace in London on Thursday following the news that the monarch was under medical supervision.
Many people have also gathered near the Queen Victoria Memorial, across from the Palace. Others are staring through the gates.
The Queen is not currently in her London residence — the Palace said in a statement earlier on Thursday that she “remains comfortable and at Balmoral” castle in Scotland.
The rain and gray skies did little to stop London tour guide Nicholas Player, 41, from visiting the palace once he finished work.
He described the news of the Queen’s ill health as “sad” but told CNN he had every hope she would recover.
“She is part of everyone’s life; she’s bridged the gap between many age groups,” he said as he held an umbrella with a Union Jack design.
“(She’s) the grandmother of the nation, really, and I don’t think there’s one person who really doesn’t like her,” he added.
CNN’s Anna Stewart contributed to this report.
Prince William has been photographed driving the Queen’s sons Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, along with Edward’s wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, into Balmoral Castle.
The group of royals entered the estate moments ago after traveling to Scotland to be with the Queen.
A convoy of vehicles containing Prince William and other members of the royal family has driven into Balmoral Castle through the main gate, per live visuals and UK media.
“A fleet of cars believed to be carrying the Duke of Cambridge, Duke of York and the Earl and Countess of Wessex arrived at Balmoral just after 5pm. The plane carrying the royal party had arrived at Aberdeen Airport just before 4pm,” according to the UK’s PA Media news agency.
Prince Harry is also on his way to the castle, a spokesperson for the Sussexes told CNN.
US President Joe Biden has been briefed on news that Queen Elizabeth II’s doctors are concerned for her health as members of the Royal Family travel to Balmoral, Scotland, and conveyed well wishes to British Prime Minister Liz Truss during a call Thursday.
“The President has been briefed, of course, this morning and will be updated throughout the day concerning news out of the United Kingdom,” John Kirby, the National Security Council director for strategic communications, told reporters Thursday.
“His and the first lady’s thoughts are solidly and squarely with the Queen today and her family,” Kirby said.
Biden, Kirby added, “did convey to Prime Minister Truss, who was on the video teleconference (with allies and partners regarding Ukraine) that he and Dr. Biden are thinking very much about the Queen and the family and the people of the United Kingdom.”
The spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has also voiced the UN chief’s thoughts to the British royals.
“I think we’re all following the developing story in the United Kingdom, and I just want to say from the secretary general’s point of view, that his thoughts are with the Queen, her family, and the people of the United Kingdom at this time,” UN Secretary-General spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said.
CNN’s Richard Roth and Zenebou Sylla contributed reporting to this post.
Prince Harry is on his way to Balmoral separately from other royals, but has been in coordination with other family members’ plans, a spokesperson for the Sussexes told CNN.
Clarification: Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, is not traveling to Balmoral with Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, a spokesperson for the Sussexes clarified in a note to CNN. It is not clear if Meghan will potentially join at a later date.
There are no plans currently for UK Prime Minister Liz Truss to travel to Scotland on Thursday or Friday, UK’s PA Media news agency reported citing a Downing Street spokesperson.
Canadians are keeping Queen Elizabeth in their thoughts, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a tweet on Thursday.
Queen Elizabeth II is Queen of Canada and Canada’s head of state, and the “personal embodiment of the Crown in Canada,” according to the Canadian government’s website.
A flight containing some members of the royal family has landed at Aberdeen airport in Scotland ahead of their arrival at Balmoral, according to the UK’s PA Media news agency.
Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, Prince Andrew, the Duke of York and Prince Edward and Edward’s wife Sophie, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, were among the members on board, according to PA.
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have also made the journey to Balmoral on Thursday. Harry and Meghan live in California but have been in Europe this week.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said in a Thursday statement that she is “deeply concerned” to hear about the concerns for the Queen’s health.
“On behalf of every nation and citizen of the Commonwealth family, I send my best wishes to Her Majesty and the Royal Family. She will remain in my prayers,” Scotland added in the tweet.
Some background: The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal countries that work together to pursue common goals which promote development, democracy and peace, according to the association. The Commonwealth’s roots go back to the British Empire but any country can join the modern Commonwealth.
The Queen always travels to the Balmoral Castle in Scotland for the summer, according to CNN’s Max Foster.
She is currently there, and the royal family members are traveling to the castle to be by her side after doctors expressed concerns over the 96-year-old’s monarch’s health.
Here’s a look at where the castle is situated in the country.
Prince Charles and Camilla have arrived at Balmoral Castle, Clarence House told CNN.
“Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall have travelled to Balmoral,” Clarence House said in a Thursday statement.
Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, is the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth. He is the heir apparent to the throne of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
The Queen has continued to conduct a wide range of engagements well into her nineties.
But she has been forced to reduce her diary significantly this year, while suffering from mobility issues.
The monarch has, over recent years, suffered a handful of episodes related to her health.
Since her Covid-19 diagnosis, the Queen has been forced to more regularly cancel or slim down some events.
She did not attend all of the celebrations for June’s Platinum Jubilee — marking her 70 years on the throne — and missed the state opening of Parliament the previous month due to mobility problems.
Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, has remained in Windsor as her children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis are on their first full day at their new school, Kensington Palace said in a statement.
Her husband, Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, is traveling to the Balmoral Castle in Scotland to be with the Queen, Kensington Palace said earlier on Thursday.
Prince Harry is also traveling to Balmoral Castle in Scotland after being notified about the concerns around his grandmother’s health, a spokesperson for the Prince told CNN.
He is en route to Balmoral along with Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex.
The Queen’s other children — Prince Edward and Princess Anne — are traveling to Balmoral Castle in Scotland or have already arrived, a royal source told CNN on Thursday.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex are traveling to Balmoral.
The Princess Royal is already at Balmoral, having been undertaking engagements in Scotland this week, the Royal source said.
Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, is also traveling to Balmoral, a source close to the Prince told CNN.
Queen Elizabeth II had postponed a meeting of her Privy Council which was due to take place on Wednesday after being advised by doctors to rest, Buckingham Palace said yesterday.
A royal source said the meeting was virtual and the Queen hadn’t been to the hospital.
The Privy Council is the formal body which advises the Queen on the exercises of the Royal Prerogative.
During the meeting, new UK Prime Minister Liz Truss would have taken her oath and new cabinet ministers would have been sworn into their roles.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Thursday that her thoughts and wishes were with the Queen.
“All of us are feeling profoundly concerned at reports of Her Majesty’s health,” Sturgeon said in a tweet.
Leader of the Scottish National Party Ian Blackford also wished the Queen a “speedy recovery.”
First Minister for Wales Mark Drakeford said he was “concerned” to hear the news from Buckingham Palace, and sends “best wishes” to the Queen.
“I send my best wishes to Her Majesty and her family on behalf of the people of Wales,” he said on Twitter.
The UK opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer said Thursday that he was “deeply worried” by the news from Buckingham Palace.
“Along with the rest of the country, I am deeply worried by the news from Buckingham Palace this afternoon,” Starmer said on Twitter.
Additionally, UK Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey tweeted his concern for the sovereign’s health.
“The whole nation’s thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family as we all hope and pray for her full recovery,” Davey said on Twitter.
The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, is traveling to Balmoral Castle in Scotland, Kensington Palace said on Thursday.
Clarence House released a statement earlier Thursday saying Prince Charles and Camilla have also traveled to Balmoral.
Clarence House released a statement Thursday saying Prince Charles and Camilla have traveled to Blamoral.
Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, is the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth. He is the heir apparent to the throne of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
British Prime Minister Liz Truss Thursday tweeted her concern for the Queen.
“The whole country will be deeply concerned by the news from Buckingham Palace this lunchtime. My thoughts - and the thoughts of people across our United Kingdom - are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time.”
Truss met the Queen on Tuesday to make her appointment as the new leader of the country official.
In addition, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair said that he was concerned by the developments.
“It is deeply concerning to hear today’s news from Buckingham Palace,” Blair said in a statement posted to Twitter.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty the Queen and her family at this worrying time,” he said.
Immediate family members of the Queen have been informed of the concern for her health, a royal source told CNN on Thursday.
The Royal source also dismissed rumors that the Queen had experienced a fall.
Buckingham Palace released a statement on Thursday about the Queen’s health.
“Following further evaluation this morning, the Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision,” it said.
“The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral” castle in Scotland, it added.
