Why Prince Philip may be given a royal ceremonial funeral instead of a state funeral

Prince Philip has died at the age of 99, it has been announced by Buckinham Palace.

The country’s longest serving consort, the Duke of Edinburgh dedicated decades of his life to royal duty, serving the nation at the monarch’s side.

The Palace said in a statement: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces 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.

“Further announcements will made in due course.

“The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”

When will his funeral take place? 

The Queen will now enter an eight day period of mourning ahead of her husband’s funeral.

During the period state affairs will be suspended and new bills will not be given royal assent.

It is unclear at this stage whether the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral will take place at the conclusion of this period of mourning.

Will Prince Philip be given a state funeral? 

Not necessarily.

Despite being entitled to a state funeral, the Duke of Edinburgh maintained he did not want the “fuss” of such an event.

It is thought that he will instead have a royal ceremonial funeral.

The Prince was closely involved with his own funeral plans which are coordinated by Lord Chamberlain’s Office at Buckingham Palace.

It is thought that the Prince’s body will lie in state at St James’ Palace and will not be open to the public.

The funeral itself will be military themed and take place at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, though a military procession may also take place from St James's Palace, down Marlborough Road and up The Mall if Covid-19 restrictions allow it.

Where will the Duke of Edinburgh be buried? 

The Duke of Edinburgh will be laid to rest at Frogmore Gardens in Windsor – an area off limits to the public.