LONDON (AFP) – People who want to pay their last respects to Queen Elizabeth II as she lies in state in the Houses of Parliament in London need to prepare for a long wait.
The government has published guidelines for people wishing to file in front of the late Queen’s sealed coffin as it sits in the Palace of Westminster from 5 pm (1600 GMT) Wednesday until 6:30 am (0530 GMT) on September 19. It would be expected that he would like to pay tribute to the only monarch that many in the UK have ever known.
The rules were announced a day after thousands of people lined the roads and Bridges Sunday as the casket carried the queen’s coffin across the Scottish countryside from her lover Balmoral. Edinburgh Castle.
“If you would like to attend Lying-in-State, please note that there will be a waiting list, which is expected to be quite long. You will need to stand for many hours, possibly overnight, with very little chance of being seated because the queue will move Consistently,” the Ministry of Digital, Culture, Media and Sports said in its guidelines.
The closed coffin of the king, who died on Thursday at the age of 96, will lie on a raised platform called a catafalque in Westminster Hall in both houses of Parliament.
“Large crowds are expected, public transport delays and road closures across the region are likely,” the ministry warned.
Visitors will have to go through an airport-style security system and can only bring one small bag with one zip slot. Larger bags can be stored in a special facility – but only if space is available.
The department advises people to bring essentials for a potentially long wait exposed to any items an early autumn day in London could throw at them – an umbrella or sunscreen, a cell phone power bank and any medication needed.
No food or liquids will be allowed after the security check in both Houses of Parliament. There will be no flowers or other honors such as candles, toys or photographs.
Please respect the dignity of this event and act appropriately. “You should remain silent while inside the Palace of Westminster,” the advice says, adding that people should dress appropriately and turn off their mobile phones before going through security.
Included in the list of things not to do: “Photograph, photograph, or use cell phones or other portable devices in the security search area or inside the Palace of Westminster. Bring or pitch gazebos or tents. Light barbecues and bonfires.”
A long list of prohibited items includes fireworks, smoke packs, torches, whistles, lasers and other items that could be used to cause disturbance as well as any banners, banners, flags or advertising or marketing messages.
___
Follow Associated Press stories on the death of Queen Elizabeth II and other stories about the British monarchy at https://apnews.com/hub/queen-elizabeth-ii
“Lifelong beer expert. General travel enthusiast. Social media buff. Zombie maven. Communicator.”