STAFF at Buckingham Palace posted a notice to announce Prince Philip’s death as flags across the country are being flown at half-mast.
The Duke of Edinburgh, 99, passed away “peacefully” at Windsor Castle on April 9, 2021.
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Why are Buckingham Palace flags at half mast today?
There are a few occasions when flags are hoisted to half-mast.
According to the British flag protocol, flags should be flown at half-mast from the announcement of the death until the funeral of the Sovereign, except on Proclamation Day.
Other occasions include the death or funerals of members of the Royal family, the funerals of foreign rulers, or prime ministers and former primer ministers of the UK.
The Royal Family’s official website has switched to a holding page in memory of the duke.
It features a central image of Philip on a black background, accompanied by the Palace’s statement.
The Palace said: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.”
What does it mean when flags are at half-mast?
Flying the flags at half- mast means the flag is flown two-thirds of the way up the flagpole.
It is a sign of mourning, respect or distress.
The Union flag has flown at half mast after the deaths of members of the Royal family and at other times of national mourning such as the terrorist bombings in London in 2005, the deaths of former U.S. President Gerald Ford and former Prime minister Margaret Thatcher.
The flag has flown at half-mast also after the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019 and the London Bridge stabbing on November that year,
Which buildings fly flags at half-mast?
Flying the flags at half-mast is a mark of respect.
Along with Buckingham Palace, all government buildings in the UK follow the same protocol.
How long do flags fly at half-mast when someone dies?
The flag is flown at half-mast during the mourning period.
The mourning period starts from the announcement of the person’s death until the funeral.
