Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana and CPA President (2022 - )

On behalf of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and in my personal capacity, I extend my condolences to King Charles III and the Royal Family, the United Kingdom and Commonwealth of Nations on the sad occasion of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Head of the Commonwealth, on Thursday 8th September 2022 at the Balmoral Castle, Scotland.

Her Majesty was admired worldwide as a powerhouse in diplomacy by serving as a true role model for inclusive governance and international relations. She has been the steady hand behind the sustenance of the Commonwealth of Nations all these decades.

For her poise, impact on the Commonwealth of Nations, and savoir-faire, Queen Elizabeth II was admired by all. She had unalloyed love for, and dedication to the welfare of her people.

King Charles III and the Royal Family are in our thoughts and prayers and the CPA stands in solidarity with them during these difficult times.

Member of the UK Parliament and Chairperson of the CPA International Executive Committee

"On behalf of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the entire CPA membership, we are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our Patron, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. As CPA Patron, Her Majesty was a tireless supporter of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the work of Commonwealth Parliaments and Parliamentarians in promoting democracy.”

The London Bridge is down. Queen Elizabeth II is gone. The Commonwealth Empire certainly is left mourning and wavering. She has held high the flag of Britain and the United Kingdom. She has held firmly the unity of the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth comprising 56 countries. The Commonwealth of 180 Parliaments. The Commonwealth of over 17,000 Parliamentarians. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association that has lasted for 110 years.

She came to Ghana in 1961 and left an indelible footprint. The Queen has seen it all in the United Kingdom. The longest monarch to have reigned.

She superintended over 15 Prime Ministers and 16 tenures from Winston Churchill, through the eventful eras of Edward Heath, Margaret Thatcher, John Major, Tony Blair, David Cameron, Boris Johnson and now Liz Truss.

She presided over the independence of most of the Commonwealth countries beginning from the mid-1950s. The aura of peace and tranquillity that Her Majesty wore, the exemplary leadership that the Queen bore, engendered deference which combined to hold the Commonwealth of Nations together.

It is the reason why London, the United Kingdom, in spite of her size continues to be the capital of the world. Queen Elizabeth II has come, she has seen and has indeed conquered.

Her transition, unquestionably, marks the end of an era. No longer "God save the Queen". From now on "God save the King". One can only hope that her successor, King Charles, will be able to keep the Commonwealth together by industry and tactical diplomacy. 

May God, her Creator, give Queen Elizabeth II eternal rest whilst providing comfort to the family and sustaining the bond within the Commonwealth.

Fare thee well quintuply quintessential Queen!

Speaker of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly and Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches network

It is with deep sadness that I wish to pay my respects and offer condolences to the Royal Family, citizens of the UK, and all Commonwealth Parliaments and their citizens, on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth II supported the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) since her accession to the throne in 1952 and later became the CPA Patron in 1989.

The Queen visited almost every Parliament in the Commonwealth during her long reign. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is a membership of 180 Commonwealth Parliaments at national, state, provincial and territorial level with around 17,000 Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff across nine Regions and 54 countries.

On behalf of the fifty-two Small Branches of the CPA, I wish to pay my respects and thank Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her remarkable service and the indelible legacy she has left behind.

Member of the Parliament of Uganda and Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) network

On behalf of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities network, I would like to send our deepest condolences to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth for the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

She will be remembered for advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.

Via Twitter

Member of the National Assembly of Nigeria and Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) network

The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) network joins the Commonwealth family and the global community to mourn the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the CPA Patron and Head of the Commonwealth.

As Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty was the moral thread that held together the over 2 billion Commonwealth citizens. Her voice was a stabilising force in global affairs as she enjoyed the endearment of people from across the world.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of the CPA Patron, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and join the many tributes from Parliamentarians across the Commonwealth.

As Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty recognised the importance of the organisation’s core values and aspirations expressed through the Commonwealth Charter, which she signed in 2013, including democracy, human rights and peace.

The Queen was also a strong advocate for the young people of the Commonwealth."

Extract from the statement from the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta:

On behalf of both sides of this Assembly, and indeed, on my own behalf, I wish to convey our
deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Royal family of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Hon. Speakers of the Houses of Parliament of the UK, the Government and people of the UK, and indeed the Commonwealth of Nations. It is with humility that this Assembly join all Parliaments of the Commonwealth to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and to eulogise in memory and deed, the life of an extraordinary public servant.

The late Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered for her sense of humour, charisma, and statesmanship in the global governance structure, most particularly in the Commonwealth, for which we are part of as a nation and a Parliament. She was a citizen and an outstanding leader of the world throughout her reign.

See above statement by Rt Hon. Alban S. K. Bagbin, Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana and CPA President

Statement by Hon. Moses Wetang'ula E.G.H MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya:

On behalf of the National Assembly of Kenya, I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the Royal Family, the House of Commons, the House of Lords and hte People of the United Kingdom upon the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. 

As Members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association fraternity, we recognise her immense contribution in the promotion of the Commonwealth ideals and in enhancing relations among the people, across the world. Throughout her long reign, she remained a paragon of devoted service and steadfast duty. 

May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Rt Hon. Catherine Gotani Hara MP, Speaker of the Parliament of Malawi and Chairperson of the CPA Africa Region Executive Committee:

I have received with deep sadness the news of the passing on of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth and Patron of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) since 1989.

Her Majesty worked tirelessly to champion the cause and objectives of the CPA. For 70 years, she was a dependable voice and staunch advocate of human rights, good governance and equality across the Commonwealth and beyond.  Her enduring messages during the annual gathering of Parliamentarians will forever remain a source of inspiration to all of us.

CPA Africa Region will cherish her enduring legacy by ensuring that Parliaments in the Region uphold parliamentary democracy in line with our constitution and the best of our traditions.

On behalf of the CPA Africa Region, I extend my sincere condolences to the Royal Family, the Prime Minister and the House of Commons, the House of Lords, the Government and people of the United Kingdom on this tragic loss.

May Her Soul rest in eternal peace.  

Statement by Hon. Prof. Peter H. Katjavivi MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia:

It is indeed with a deep sense of sadness that we learned about the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022. At the time of her passing, Her Majesty was 96 years old and had reigned for more than 70 years.

During this difficult period, I, on behalf of the National Assembly and its entire membership, would like to extend profound condolences to His Majesty King Charles III, the Members of the Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the Commonwealth family.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will always be remembered for her gentle touch of leadership. She remained committed to serving not only her country, but also the Commonwealth of Nations and she did so with absolute dignity and grace. We will always remember her care for nature, being people centred and accessible, as well as her excellent leadership qualities. These leadership abilities have seen her traverse all corners of the globe in executing responsibilities as the Head of the Commonwealth. She has ably guided the Commonwealth through easy and difficult times. Above all these, she maintained an honourable, down to earth family life as a mother and grandmother. 

I had the honour of meeting her twice during her reign. Firstly, during her visit to Namibia soon after our independence in 1991. During that period, I had the privilege of introducing my late wife, Rosemary Jane Katjavivi, to Her Majesty. We then made reference to the fact that Jane had embarked upon a publishing venture on Namibian literature and general publishing. At this juncture, Her Majesty posed a question to Jane with reference to the fact that Namibia being a new nation, whether her work would also include oral history? Her Majesty was always quck to identify the core issues in any situation.

My second interaction with Her Majesty was at Buckingham Palace. This was when I and my fellow envoys from a number of Commonwealth Nations were invited to London. We were responsible for mobilizing financial support during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in our respective countries. The funds that were raised across the Commonwealth were used for youth development programmes as well as promoting the avoidable blindness programme within the Commonwealth. We were all invited to the Buckingham Palace as part of the Queens Diamond Jubilee celebrations. 

May the almighty God comfort and strengthen His Majesty King Charles III, the Royal Family, the People of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the Commonwealth Family.

May the soul of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II rest in eternal peace.

Statement by Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria:

Paid a condolence visit to the UK High Commissioner in Nigeria, H.E Catriona Laing, on the demise of Queen Elizabeth II and also signed the condolence register. Her Majesty served till the End. May She rest in peace. To King Charles III, I say God bless the King!

Via Twitter

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Roger Mancienne said:

On behalf of the National Assembly of Seychelles, I express the deep respect and condolences shared with the people of Seychelles at the passing away of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain.

Queen Elizabeth is a figure of importance to our institution in her role as Head of the Commonwealth and Patron of its Parliamentary Association, alongside her role as Head of State of the United Kingdom. We recognise the cardinal role she played in international affairs through her long reign, during which she has become a familiar figure in many countries including our own.

The Queen symbolized the values and aspirations of Parliaments in the Commonwealth organisation which has been steadfast in the promotion of peace, democracy and human rights. Our Assembly joins the numerous bodies throughout the world in paying tribute to a figure representing the shared interest of Parliaments everywhere.

Our Assembly extends its solidarity with the Parliament and people of Great Britain at the loss of a figure of national identity and unity.

The President of South Africa H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his profound and sincere condolences to His Majesty King Charles III on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

"Her Majesty was an extraordinary and world-renowned public figure who lived a remarkable life. Her life and legacy will be fondly remembered by many around the world. The Queen’s commitment and dedication during her 70 years on the throne remains a noble and virtuous example to the entire world."

The President met Her Majesty at the last Commonwealth meeting which was held in London in 2018 where they spent some time looking at letters that former President Mandela sent to The Queen, reminiscing about the great stateman that Her Majesty respected enormously.

President Ramaphosa says that South Africa’s thoughts and prayers are with The Royal Family, the Government and people of the United Kingdom as they mourn their immense loss.

Statement by Hon. Dr. Tulia Ackson MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania

On behalf of the Parliament of Tanzania, I extend my deepest condolences to the Royal Family, the House of Commons, the House of Lords, and the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. As Head of the Commonwealth, we acknowledge her great contribution in the promotion of the ideals of the Commonwealth.

Statement from the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt Hon. Anita Annet Among MP:

On behalf of Parliament of Uganda, I send my deepest condolences to the Royal Family, the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the people of the United Kingdom upon the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. As members of the Commonwealth, we acknowledge her immense contribution on fostering links and relations around the world.

May her soul find eternal rest.

The Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Rt Hon. Nelly B. K. Mutti, MP visited the residence of the British High Commissioner to sign the late Queen’s book of condolence.

The Speaker described the late Queen Elizabeth II as an inspirational woman who devoted her life to service, serving the people of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

Reflecting on Her Majesty’s reign, the Speaker explained that she had just completed studies at the University of Zambia in 1979 and was a Protocol Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when The Queen and Prince Philip visited Zambia for Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

‘We need to celebrate Her Majesty’s life as she has been a great inspiration to a lot of women, including myself as the First Female Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia as we continue to look to her great achievements and good deeds.’ said the Speaker.

Statement by Hon. Mohammed Nasheed, Speaker of the People's Majlis of the Maldives:

With the Queen’s passing we have lost the world’s, perhaps history’s, strongest matriarchic. Her ability to reach out to people, regardless of their colour or creed, was second to none. Which explains why she will be mourned across the world, including in Maldives.

Via Twitter

Statement by Hon. Raja Pervaiz Ashraf MNA, Speaker of the National Assembly: 

Raja Pervaiz Ashraf extended his deepest condolences and sympathies to the family, friends, the people and government of Britain on the sad demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

He stated that Pakistan would always remember the Queen for her tireless efforts to promote peace between Pakistan and India through amicable resolution of all issues including that of Jammu and Kashmir.

He recalled the day when she addressed the joint sitting of Pakistan's Parliament back in 1997 and expressed her strong desire to see a peaceful region by addressing all causes of concern.

Her Majesty's visits to Pakistan back in 1961 and then in 1997 to mark 50 years of independence of Pakistan not only reflected her affection and love for the country and its inhabitants but also echoed her strong desire to consolidate bilateral relations with Pakistan.

In recognition of Her Majesty's innumerable contributions towards strengthening and betterment of Pakistan she was conferred with the highest civilian award of Pakistan-Nishan-i-Pakistan.

Two minutes of silence observed in Parliament to pay homage to the passing of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II

Two minutes of silence was observed in Parliament today (09 September 2022) to pay homage to the passing of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II.

The Parliament convened today at 09.30 am under the chairmanship of the Speaker Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana and a two-minute silence was given the proposal made by the Prime Minister Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena at the beginning of the parliamentary session.

Following that, the Chief Opposition Whip, Member of Parliament Hon. Lakshman Kiriella also made a statement and expressed the condolences of the opposition to the passing of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II.   

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, offered her “heartfelt and deep sympathies” in relation to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on behalf of the people and Parliament of Bangladesh. She also “offered her deep condolences and expressed her sorrow at the death of Queen Elizabeth II.”

Joint statement by the Presiding Officers on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

It is with great sorrow that we join with others in expressing sadness at news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II. 

We send our sincere condolences to Her Majesty’s family at this time.

Her Majesty has travelled much of Australia’s journey with us. She was monarch and Australia’s head of State for 70 of the nation’s 121 years of federation.

Queen Elizabeth II has been inextricably linked with Australia’s Parliament.

Her grandfather, George V, opened Australia’s first Parliament in the Exhibition Buildings in Melbourne when he was Duke of York.

Then her father, George VI, along with her mother opened the provisional Parliament House in Canberra as Duke and Duchess of York on 9 May 1927.

To the day, 61 years later – on 9 May 1988, Her Majesty opened the new Parliament House.
Her Royal Highness formally opened sittings of Parliament three times; in 1954 the year following her coronation, in 1974 and 1977.

Her Royal Highness visited Parliament House, both provisional and new, eight times. Most recently, in 2011 for a reception in the Great Hall as part of a tour which ended with attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Perth.

In Her Majesty's speeches during those visits, she often expressed faith and optimism in Australia, its people and its democracy. She spoke of the special bond she felt with Australians who she said, in 2006, had creative energy leavened by generous warmth and humour with a proud record of defending freedom and democracy.

Her Majesty’s commitment to the Commonwealth, and its commitment to democracy, was a constant throughout her reign. That commitment to parliamentary democracy is a foundation stone of the Commonwealth Parliament Association which brings together more than 180 legislatures, including Australia.

There will be a range of commemorative activities at Australian Parliament House in coming days. These include:

• A 96 gun salute to mark the death of Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II on the forecourt of Australian Parliament House
• Flags at Australian Parliament House will today be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset as a mark of respect and mourning 
• A National Memorial Service will be held at Australian Parliament House and broadcast to the nation

See statement above from the Speaker of Legislative Assembly of Australian Capital Territory, Joy Burch, MLA, CPA Small Branches Chairperson.

Joint statement by the Presiding Officers:

On behalf of the Parliament of New South Wales, it is with great sadness that we acknowledge
the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who has died at the age of 96.

Her official title was Her Majesty Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God, Queen of
Australia and Her other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth.

The people of New South Wales feel her loss deeply. Her Late Majesty served the Commonwealth and this State selflessly for 70 years, with wisdom and integrity as she bore
witness to the changes of the world.

The Parliament of New South Wales has a special affinity with Her Late Majesty.

On 4 February 1954, thousands of people lined the streets of Sydney to greet Queen Elizabeth as she became the first British sovereign to open an Australian Parliament.

Her Late Majesty addressed both Houses of the Parliament of New South Wales that day and
referred to the location as being the ‘Mother Parliament of Australia’. She spoke of a welcome so cordial and spontaneous that she would always remember it.

Queen Elizabeth II continued to have a strong connection to New South Wales throughout her
reign, visiting the State and its people on 12 occasions.

On 20 February 1992, Her Late Majesty opened the 50th Parliament of New South Wales and
unveiled an oil portrait to commemorate the 40th anniversary of her reign. Her portrait remains hanging in the Fountain Court of our Parliament.

Queen Elizabeth II has been a faithful and shining light to her subjects. She offered support to communities throughout New South Wales in times of drought, flood, fire and a pandemic.

Members of the public can access the official online condolence book and find additional
information at nsw.gov.au.

The Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, Hon. Natasha Fyles, MLA issued a statement:

On behalf of the people of the Northern Territory, I express my sincere condolences to all members of the Royal family following the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

Even before her accession to the throne, the then Princess Elizabeth had dedicated her life to the service of the Commonwealth.

Her Majesty’s exceptionally long reign began on 6 February 1952 following the sudden death of her father King George II, just before her 26th birthday. She was a remarkable woman and had an extraordinary life, impacting positively on the lives of millions of people.

The Queen loved Australia, and she loved the Northern Territory. Her multiple visits to the Territory meant she understood our strong cultural bonds and our connection to our land.

Very few Territorians know a world without Her Majesty in it. She will be greatly missed.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, by Grace of God Queen of Australia and Her other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth, passed away on 8 September 2022.

Queen Elizabeth II visited the Queensland Parliament on numerous occasions, including:

• In 1954, the Queen became the first reigning British monarch to visit Australia with her husband Prince Phillip. During this tour, she visited the Queensland Parliament on 9 March for a State reception at Parliament House, and the following day for a parliamentary luncheon.
• On 13 April 1970, the Queen attended a Parliament House garden party.
• On 8 October 1982, she unveiled the Parliament House restoration plaque, while in Brisbane for the Commonwealth Games.
• On 24 October 2011, the Queen attended a reception for emergency service personnel, volunteers, and those affected by natural disasters during the summer of 2010-2011.

You may record a message of condolence on the Queensland Government’s website or visit Queensland Parliament to leave a message of sympathy in the condolence book in the Parliamentary Annexe in Alice Street.  

Statement from the Presiding Officers:

The Parliament of South Australia joins with others to mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and extends the Parliament’s sincere condolences to the Royal Family. We recognise the Royal Family’s loss, and acknowledge that this loss will be felt by South Australians and people across the world.

Her late Majesty is linked to our Parliament through our Westminster traditions, and her visit to the Parliament of South Australia in March 1954 to open a session of the 34th Parliament.

Her late Majesty will be remembered for her 70 years of outstanding service to the Commonwealth and to our State.

The flags at Parliament House will be flown at half-mast during the mourning period.

During a condolence motion in the Legislative Assembly of Tasmania, Hon. Jeremy Rockliff, Premier of Tasmania said:

On behalf of the Tasmanian Government and all Tasmanians, I have written to the Royal Family to express our deep sorrow at the loss of such a remarkable Monarch and our sincere condolences at this very sad time.

As Head of the Commonwealth, the Queen played an important, symbolic and unifying role, reinforcing the links by which the Commonwealth joins people together across the globe. Over the course of her reign, the Commonwealth grew from just seven nations to 56, representing more than 2.5 billion people, more than a third of the world's population.

During her reign, The Queen undertook more than 200 visits to Commonwealth countries, making many return visits over the years. Her Majesty holds a particularly special place in the hearts of Tasmanians as the first reigning monarch to visit our beautiful island home. During her reign she returned a further six times.

Her Majesty's first visit to Tasmania was in February 1954, only a year after her coronation, to celebrate the sesquicentenary of Tasmania. Her Majesty had a genuine and lively interest in our people and our wonderful state and enjoyed the opportunity to meet many Tasmanians and hear about their lives.

There is no doubt that beyond the loyalty, dedication and service of her public life we also remember Queen Elizabeth II as a mother, a grandmother and a great grandmother and acknowledge the sadness that her passing brings to her family and the generosity they are showing in sharing this time of grief with us.

Her Majesty led a long life, well lived; a life of selfless service and absolute devotion to duty. She is an example to us all. May she rest in peace.

Joint statement by the Presiding Officers:

We mourn and are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Her Majesty will be remembered for a lifetime of dedicated service and will long be admired for honouring throughout her reign the commitment she made to the people of the Commonwealth.

We are grateful for all that Her Majesty achieved during a remarkable life.

On behalf of the Victorian Parliament, we offer our sincere condolences to the Royal Family, recognising that their loss is also felt by so many people here in Victoria and across the world.

In remembrance, the flags on Parliament House are being flown at half-mast.

Joint Statement from the Presiding Officers:

We are saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of the Parliament of Western Australia, we convey our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Royal Family.

We will always remember and give thanks for Her Majesty’s remarkable life dedicated to service and duty to the people of the Commonwealth.

Flags at Parliament House are being flown at half-mast during the official mourning period in remembrance and recognition of the loss felt by so many people in Western Australia and across the world.

A condolence book is available for visitors to Parliament.

Statement from the Speaker of the House of Commons, The Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle:

'For all of us, the Queen has been a constant presence in our lives – as familiar as a member of the family, yet one who has exercised a calm and steadying influence over our country. Most of us have never known a time when she was not there. Her death is not only a tragedy for the Royal family, but a terrible loss for us all.

During her 70 years on the throne – and even before that, as a teenager, reassuring and engaging with children and families disrupted by the Second World War – she has given our lives a sense of equilibrium. While her reign has been marked by dramatic changes in the world, Her Majesty has maintained her unwavering devotion to the UK, the British Overseas Territories and the Commonwealth of Nations - and her gentle authority and sound reason have been felt throughout.

She has travelled the world extensively, modernised the Royal family, and is credited with inventing the royal ‘walkabout’, which enabled her to meet people from all walks of life during her visits. As Head of State, she has provided advice and the benefit of long experience to 15 prime ministers during her reign – and met more than a quarter of all the American presidents in the history of the US.

The Queen has been involved in everything that is important to us and which makes us who we are - from state occasions to Royal weddings, and especially at Christmas, with her wise words and reflective annual message.

She has been a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother - but she has been our Queen, and we will miss her beyond measure.'

Statement from the Lord Speaker, The Rt Hon. Lord McFall of Alcluith:

'Following the death of the Queen, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the nation and the whole Commonwealth is united in deep mourning.

For 70 years she has been a loyal and steadfast presence in the national life of the United Kingdom.

Her integrity, unique record of public service, deep sense of faith and commitment to her role have ensured that she will be regarded as a supreme example of a constitutional Monarch.

Her vital relationship with our Chamber, where the three elements of Parliament come together during the State Opening, ensures that she will be forever remembered and cherished by the House of Lords.

Today my thoughts, and indeed those of the whole House, will go out to His Majesty the King and to the members of the Royal family, for whom this feeling of loss will be profound.

Today the nation reflects on the service Queen Elizabeth II gave to the Crown and to her people, and gives thanks for her life.

Members may wish to be aware that information about arrangements for the House will be issued by Black Rod and the House authorities shortly.

In fondest remembrance of a Queen dedicated to Her nation and Her people.'

Statement from Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK Branch:

All Members and staff of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK would like to express their profound sadness at the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We offer our sincere condolences to the whole Royal Family at this difficult time.
Her Majesty was Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association as well as Head of the Commonwealth. Her contribution to the evolution and success of the Commonwealth was remarkable and greatly valued throughout the Commonwealth and its parliaments, including here in the United Kingdom.

We look forward to her successor King Charles III playing his part in the Commonwealth and its institutions in the coming years, and wish him all strength and success.

Statement by Roger Spink MLA, Chair of the Legislative Assembly:

"On behalf of the people of the Falkland Islands, we wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to the Royal Family at this sorrowful time. We have a deep and lasting affection for Her Majesty The Queen, who on her twenty-first birthday declared 'that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.' 

Her Majesty did devote her life to the service of her country and the Falkland Islands were devoted to The Queen engaging with many of her celebrations.

As Head of the Commonwealth Her Majesty has supported our Islands through many major events, including the invasion and subsequent Liberation of the Islands. The loss of The Queen will be felt deeply throughout our community, she will never be forgotten and I would like to again express my and those of the people of the Falklands heartfelt sympathies for the Royal Family."

Statement from The Speaker: 

“It is with sadness that I have learned of the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

Queen Elizabeth came to be recognised internationally for her personal dignity and her commitment to her public duty, qualities which served her well through her long reign when so much has changed in the world. Indeed, since her official visit to Parliament Buildings in 1953, our own society is radically different, politically, economically and socially.

This is of course a particularly sorrowful time for those with a British and unionist identity, especially coming so soon after the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. However, Queen Elizabeth was also respected and held in high regard by many in our wider society, particularly given the significant leadership she contributed to making political progress here. Her passing will therefore be mourned by many across the whole community in the days to come.

Amidst all of the formalities of this occasion, I am mindful today that a family is in mourning. On behalf of the Assembly I express our sympathies to the entire Royal family who have lost a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

I will be liaising with the Party Whips and the Assembly Commission in relation to practical arrangements within Parliament Buildings in the coming days to ensure that the Assembly can pay its condolences.”

Scottish Parliament Presiding Officer the Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP said:

"On behalf of the Scottish Parliament, I convey our deepest and most sincere condolences to His Majesty King Charles III and the Royal Family following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. This is a day of great sadness for the whole country and a time of deeply personal grief for the Royal Family.

"The Queen was an extraordinary woman, who led an extraordinary life of service. From the day that this Parliament was established in 1999, Her Majesty showed her unwavering support for the institution and the time and importance she gave to that relationship is hugely appreciated.

"The Parliament will have an opportunity to consider a Motion of Condolence and reflect on the life of this much loved and much respected Monarch whose enduring bond with Scotland and the Scottish people will long be remembered."

A statement from the Llywydd (Speaker), Rt Hon. Elin Jones MS:

Queen Elizabeth II served the United Kingdom with a dignity that endeared her to millions around the world.

She reigned during a time that has seen great constitutional and social change in our country. She attended every Senedd opening ceremony since its inception, reflecting her recognition of this Parliament’s contribution to Welsh life.

The Queen will be remembered for her lifelong commitment to public service, including championing many charities and organisations in Wales.

The Senedd sends its condolences to her family.

Official condolence message from the Bailiwick:

"We, the Lieutenant-Governor and the Bailiff of Guernsey, the Deputy Bailiff, the Royal Court and the States of Guernsey, the President and the States of Alderney, the Seigneur and the Chief Pleas of Sark, and all the people of this Bailiwick with humble duty beg leave to offer to His Majesty The King and His family our respectful and sincerest sympathy on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, whose long and loyal reign stands as an inspiration to us all. Her Majesty will always be remembered with great affection across our islands, which she visited on six memorable occasions."

Statement by the Bailiff and acting Lieutenant Governor, Sir Timothy Le Cocq:

I know that islanders will be deeply saddened, as am I, at the news from Buckingham Palace of the death of Her Majesty the Queen. It is almost impossible to overstate her importance in the life of the nation and all her dominions in the 70 years of Her reign. She has been an example of duty discharged and promises kept, and she has worked tirelessly over the decades for the wellbeing of all her peoples and of the Commonwealth.

There will be time in the days and weeks to come, to reflect on all of that but today we can only feel the sadness, of the loss of a person who has been a constant presence in our lives, and who is held in this island in such great esteem and affection.

We should also remember that this is also a private time of grief for the Royal Family and our thoughts and prayers are with them now as they come to terms with the loss of a mother and grandmother."

A special States Meeting will be held at 3pm today, 9 September 2022, beginning with an Island-wide one minute silence at 3:05pm. See the full Order Paper.

Joint Statement from the President of Tynwald and the Speaker of the House of Keys: 

On behalf of the Members of Tynwald, we extend to His Majesty the King and all members of the Royal Family, our heartfelt condolences on the death of Her late Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II, Lord of Man.

Her Majesty The Queen first visited the Isle of Man on 9th August 1955, just two years after her Coronation. During the visit, Her Majesty attended a special sitting of Tynwald Court where she expressed a hope that one day she would preside over the Tynwald Ceremony at St John’s. This hope was realised during her third visit to the Island for the celebration of the Millennium of Tynwald in 1979, and again in 2003. Her Majesty also visited the Island in August 1989. On each visit she was accompanied by her devoted husband, Prince Philip, and the Royal couple were welcomed wholeheartedly by the people of the Isle of Man.

Her Majesty The Queen gave unstintingly devoted public service to her country and the Commonwealth, and she made many genuine and lasting connections with the people of this Island during her lifetime.

Further information will be issued in due course on the formal procedures by which Tynwald Court will formally proclaim His Majesty as Lord of Mann and express its sympathy to him and to all the Royal Family on their loss

An extract of the Statement from the Chief Minister of Gibraltar, Hon. Fabian Picardo, KC, MP:

My dear fellow Gibraltarians and residents of Gibraltar, the death of Queen Elizabeth II has been a dreadful blow for all British people and for the people of all Her Realms and Commonwealth. The whole of Gibraltar is under a cloud of sorrow today. We are united in mourning.

All of the British people and the British family of nations mourn the loss of our Queen and the end of the Second Elizabethan era. For the next ten days and beyond we will be mourning the passing of our beloved sovereign. The Queen of Gibraltar. A position Elizabeth the Second held not just in our hearts but in our laws also.

And Gibraltar, as the only Primary Saluting Battery outside of the United Kingdom, has today seen the Royal Gibraltar Regiment perform a seamless death gun salute at the tower. 96 rounds were fired. One for each year of Queen Elizabeth’s long life. Our beloved and respected Royal Gibraltar Regiment guarded our sovereign earlier this year. Today they have done us all proud under the command of Gibraltarian Major Charles Bonfante.

She was our Queen. Gibraltar was her Rock. And She was ours. As She had said of Her own husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, She was our strength and stay. Our Rock in hard times. And in all Her time on the throne, Her Majesty was consistently known to have cared deeply for Her people in Gibraltar. We cherished Her visit in 1954. A visit that left an indelible mark on our small, then emerging, nation and carved between our Sovereign and the Gibraltarians a special relationship without equal. In its own way, Her visit cast the die for the years ahead of us in a way that has served to define us and further cement our loyalty to the Crown.

A loyalty which She reciprocated to us and all our fellow British subjects. Upon Her accession to the throne, when Queen Elizabeth devoted Her life to service, She expressed Her commitment as being for life. She became an example of service and respect for the rule of law. Most recently She demonstrated that by stoically abiding by COVID rules to mourn the love of Her life, the Duke of Edinburgh alone. And She has demonstrated that also by serving literally until the last hours of Her life.

She had been served by 6 Chief Ministers of Gibraltar. She had countless other Premiers, Prime Ministers and First Ministers in Her service throughout Her Realms and Commonwealth. But She was also a mother, a grandmother and a great grandmother. And today we extend our condolences also to the members of Her family who are mourning not just a monarch, but a matriarch and a mother also.

I do so on behalf of all members of His Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar, all Ministers, all Members of the Parliament as well as all civil servants and all the public service as well. And indeed on behalf of every single Gibraltarian and every resident of Gibraltar.

In reflecting for Gibraltar on Queen Elizabeth’s lifetime of service, I think we must reflect on the fact that She was the Queen of all our Constitutions to date. As our Queen, she was the Head of our Executive and we were expressly one of Her Dominions. It was under Her hand that those Orders in Council were made. Each step in our journey to greater self-government to date was established and entrenched in Her time on the throne. We were emancipated to the autonomy we have today in the glorious Second Elizabethan era. So modern Gibraltar’s abject devotion to the Crown has been fashioned by Her reign.

For now, I know that you all join me in wishing that Queen Elizabeth the Second rest in eternal peace. God Bless Gibraltar. God Save The King. Long Live the King.

A personal statement by the Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha: 

"On behalf of the communities of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, we would like to express our profound sorrow at the news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

As proud members of the British family, and with a long tradition of loyalty, we feel a strong connection to The Queen. Her loss will be keenly felt throughout our communities.

The community of St Helena recalls with fondness The Queen's visit here as a young Princess, alongside her father King George VI.

The Queen's leadership, especially during times of adversity, was unparalleled and an inspiration to us all. Her tireless work for Her people will never be forgotten.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Angelo Farrugia, on his behalf and on behalf of the House of
Representatives of Malta, expresses deep sentiments of grief at the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II
who, during the long number of years as Head of the Commonwealth, always enjoyed the respect of the
Maltese people.

The President of the House of Representatives, Hon. Annita Demetriou, MP said:

Throughout her long reign, Queen Elizabeth II served the people of the UK with unwavering commitment and will always be remembered for her strong sense of duty in carrying out her crucial role. As the UK and indeed the world underwent momentous transformations through the decades, Queen Elizabeth II always served as a constant of strength and perseverance for her people. Furthermore, as Head of the Commonwealth she was the figurehead of a diverse and vibrant mosaic of nations bound together by shared values and aspirations.

The passing away of Queen Elizabeth II is a great loss for the UK and the Commonwealth of Nations, especially in today's turbulent times, when moderation and wisdom are needed more than ever.

Statement by Hon. Anthony Rota MP, Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada

It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada. Throughout her long reign, The Queen served Canada and the Commonwealth with great dedication and distinction. From her first royal tour in 1951, prior to her accession to the Throne, to her
most recent royal tour, in 2010, Her Majesty The Queen observed and shared in the development of modern-day Canada. The Queen truly realized the pledge she made on her 21st birthday:

My whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our
great imperial family, to which we all belong.

Members of Parliament will not need to renew their oath of allegiance. Provisions included in the Interpretation Act ensure that allegiance is automatically extended to our new sovereign. Furthermore, the passing of Her Majesty The Queen does not bring an end to the present parliamentary session or cause the dissolution of Parliament.

Statement by Hon. George J. Furey K.C., Speaker of the Senate of Canada

It is with extraordinary sadness that I learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Throughout her historic reign of seventy years, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had an unwavering devotion to the people of Canada and the Commonwealth. Following the death of her father, Her Majesty was crowned in Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953.

Her Majesty The Queen completed twenty-two official tours of Canada since her accession to the Throne and has twice delivered a Speech from the Throne in the Senate Chamber. On these occasions, Her Majesty benefited from the support of her husband, The Duke of Edinburgh, who also displayed a deep commitment to Canada in his lifetime. 

Although Her extraordinary reign has now ended, it will continue to instill and inspire the values of public service, selflessness, and quiet dignity for generations to come.

On behalf of the Senate of Canada, I extend sincere condolences to His Majesty and to all members of The Royal Family.

Statement by Hon. Nathan Cooper MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta

“Along with millions of people around the world today, I was saddened to learn about the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of all Members of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family. My thoughts are also with all countries of the Commonwealth whom Her Majesty faithfully served throughout her remarkable reign. A beloved sovereign and a respected figure among leaders the world over, Queen Elizabeth II was a symbol of our nation’s historical and continuing connection to the British monarchy and also of the role of the constitutional monarchy in Canada.” – Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta

During her life Queen Elizabeth II visited Alberta six times. Her first visit to the province was in 1951, when she was Princess Elizabeth. Her most recent visit, was during Alberta’s centennial year in 2005. On May 24, 2005, Her Majesty addressed the Legislative Assembly of Alberta in the Chamber, becoming the first reigning monarch to do so.

In 2012, the Legislative Assembly of Alberta hosted public events to celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee; garden parties took place at the Legislature Grounds and at the McDougall Centre in Calgary. Over the past year we have been celebrating the Platinum Jubilee.

Queen Elizabeth II was the longest reigning British monarch and leaves behind a strong legacy of public service through the over 600 royal patronages across the Commonwealth, including 36 charitable organizations in Canada, attached to her name. Her work also highlighted the critical role of the Canadian Forces; she served as Colonel-in-Chief, Captain General and Air Commodore-in-Chief for numerous units, including the Calgary Highlanders and the King's Own Calgary Regiment.

Albertans will have the chance to honour the life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in the coming days. There will be books of condolence for public signing in the Legislature. A Celebration of Life will follow. Further details about these public memorials are forthcoming.

Statement by Hon. Raj Chouhan, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia:

It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada. On behalf of the Members of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, I extend sincere condolences to Members of the Royal Family.

Few people in the world were as respected and admired as our late Sovereign. Her Late Majesty’s selfless devotion and dedication to our country and the Commonwealth over her 70 year reign was evident and truly historic. Canadians held Her Late Majesty in the highest esteem, and join countless people around the world in mourning her passing.

Statement by Hon. Myrna Driedger, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba

It was with a heavy heart that we learned today of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba I wish to offer our sincere condolences and sympathies to the Royal Family.

Her Majesty touched the lives of so many Manitobans over her seven decades of service, and for that she will never be forgotten. Few who are alive today can remember a world in which she was not Queen, and her presence in our lives shall remain profound and immeasurable.

Her example of a life dedicated to service and leadership shall be a beacon for all.

May Her Majesty rest in peace. Long live the King.

Statement from the Premier, Hon. Blaine Higgs, MLA:

On behalf of New Brunswickers, I extend to His Majesty and all members of the Royal Family our most sincere condolences. During her many years as our country’s head of state, Canadians welcomed her into their hearts. During her reign she forged a close and lasting relationship with our country and our province. She visited Canada and New Brunswick several times during which the high regard in which New Brunswickers held her was obvious. She was a symbol of strength and resolve, a guiding light in turbulent times, and a figure of stability.

Throughout her reign, the Queen was the embodiment of selfless duty and service, and over 70 years she undertook her journey with a steadfast commitment to the Commonwealth and its people. Her unwavering dedication to her life’s work was evident. Her reign was marked by incredible change, periods of prosperity and adversity, of peace and war – and throughout, she exuded grace while remaining a symbol of unity. God save The King.

Statement from Hon. Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly:

“On behalf of Members and employees of the House of Assembly of Newfoundland and Labrador, I would like to express sincerest condolences to the Royal Family on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

At this time, I would like to pay tribute to her memory and honour the service she gave to people throughout the Commonwealth nations during her 70 years on the throne. I also take this opportunity to reflect on Her Majesty’s importance to the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and time spent here, from her first visit in November 1951 – at the time, Princess Elizabeth, Duchess of Edinburgh – when she visited on behalf of her ailing father; to her most recent visit in June 1997, during the momentous occasion of the 500^th anniversary of John Cabot’s arrival.

During each of Her Majesty’s visits to Newfoundland and Labrador, there was always great fanfare and excitement in the towns and communities she visited. Our Legislature remembers fondly The Queen’s visit to the House of Assembly Chamber in June 1997, during which time she signed the official guest book and greeted employees of the House of Assembly who had gathered to mark the momentous and historic occasion.

As a Legislature and as a province, our thoughts and prayers remain with the Royal Family in the difficult time ahead. In mourning the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, let us all take a moment to honour her memory and her dedicated service.”

Statement by Hon. Frederick Blake Jr.,  Speaker of the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly:

Queen Elizabeth II was Canada’s longest reigning Sovereign and the first to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking the 70th anniversary of her accession to the Throne on February 6, 2022.

Queen Elizabeth II and the late Prince Philip took time to visit the Northwest Territories twice and were warmly welcomed on each occasion. In 1970, they travelled to multiple communities across the Northwest Territories. Her Majesty had a hands-on northern experience, including holding a gold brick poured in Yellowknife and an unscheduled landing due to a mechanical failure in an airplane. The Royal Family even had the opportunity to observe northern games in Inuvik.

In 1994, the Queen visited Yellowknife where she dedicated the Legislature building in which we so proudly do our work today. In her speech from the Speaker’s chair, she remarked, “You have your differences, linguistic, cultural or geographical. May these differences long remain, but may they never be cause for intolerance, or give rise to acrimony.” In this way, Her Majesty demonstrated her understanding and support for consensus government in the Northwest Territories,” said Speaker Blake. “She was a pillar of leadership and stability for this country, and this is an enormous loss. The Legislative Assembly will mourn, not only for the Royal Family but for all northerners, this immeasurable loss. Queen Elizabeth II demonstrated a keen interest in and understanding of the Northwest Territories.

The Premier of Nova Scotia, Hon. Tim Houston, MLA spoke about The Queen’s deep interest in Canada and its residents, as well as her five visits to Nova Scotia, with the last one being in 2010.

‘Over the coming days, people throughout our province and the entire world will be coming together to remember The Queen's lifetime of service and dedication to so many worthy causes. She truly lived the pledge she offered in 1947 when she said, 'My whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service.'

Statement from Speaker Tony Akoak:

“Earlier this year, Nunavummiut celebrated together in recognition of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, which marked seven decades of extraordinary service to the peoples of the Commonwealth. Today, we are united in grief at the news of the passing of Her Majesty. On behalf of all Members of the Legislative Assembly, I express our profound sorrow.”

Statement by Hon. Ted Arnott, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario 

It is with profound sadness that the Legislative Assembly of Ontario reacts to the news of the death of our beloved Sovereign, the Queen of Canada, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of all Members of our Legislature, deepest condolences are extended to His Majesty The King and to the Royal Family. We wish them peace and strength during this difficult time.

The citizens of our province and our country are mourning the loss of not only their Queen, but the loss of a remarkable individual who devoted her life to serving her people. Her Majesty carried out public duties with dignity and passion for over seven decades – an extraordinary achievement, and one which we will always reflect on with gratitude and respect.

The Queen was no stranger to Queen’s Park and Ontario’s Legislative Building. Her Majesty made her first trip here while still Princess in 1951 just months prior to her accession to the throne. In subsequent visits to these grounds in 1973, 1984, and 2010, The Queen was greeted by thousands of well-wishers who came here in vast numbers to see her. During Her Majesty’s final visit here in 2010, she unveiled a permanent legacy to this site by dedicating a plaque describing the history of this park and marking the 150th anniversary of its founding as a public space by her great grandfather, the future King Edward VII, in 1860.

Our thoughts and prayers will be with His Majesty The King and the Royal Family in the days and weeks ahead.

Statement from the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Hon. Colin LaVie on the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

On behalf of the Legislative Assembly, I extend to all members of the Royal Family, our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

In common with our fellow subjects in all parts of the Commonwealth, we are mourning this loss. Tributes to her deep sense of duty and loyalty are being offered from people around the world with whom we are joined in sorrow.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II began her reign in 1952 and is the longest sitting Monarch in British history. I believe that most people would agree that Her Majesty devoted her life to public service as she promised in her 21st birthday speech.

The Legislative Assembly sends its sincere and deepest sympathies to the Royal Family during the days and weeks ahead. When the House again meets, a Resolution of Sympathy will be offered by the House to express our heartfelt condolences.

At this time, we also commemorate the accession of His Majesty, King Charles III to the Throne. We send sincere best wishes to His Majesty.

Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the President of the National Assembly, Mr. François Paradis, announces the immediate lowering of the Quebec flag on the central tower of the Parliament Building until the day of the funeral.

The President of the National Assembly would like to offer, on behalf of the latter, his most sincere condolences to the members of the Royal Family and to the entire British population.

It is recalled that it was on February 6, 1952, that Elizabeth II acceded to the British throne. She then became the Queen of England and the Head of the Commonwealth, of which Canada was a part.

Statement from the Legislative Assembly:

The Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan joins the people of Canada, the Commonwealth, and the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We offer our condolences to the Royal Family on their deep loss.

Statement from the Commissioner of Yukon, Angélique Bernard:

Her Majesty was greatly loved by all Her Yukoners who recall with great joy her historic visit to our territory in July 1959 when she visited with the Duke of Edinburgh. Her service to Canada and the Commonwealth will always remain a testament to her solemn dedication to serving her peoples around the globe with dignity, grace, and humility. She demonstrated it was possible for women to hold important positions while raising a family. She was a model for many women, young and old.

During her lifetime, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a witness to the history of Canada. She has seen our country grow and mature while remaining true to its history, its distinctive character, and its values. She had an enduring and deeply rooted connection with Canadians. Her genuine affection for our country and its people extended beyond her role as a sovereign. Canadians recognize this heartfelt kinship and have reciprocated with great fondness and admiration. We share with the other peoples of the Commonwealth the profound sorrow at her passing.

The Passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - Statement from the Premier of Anguilla, Hon. Ellis L. Webster, MD on behalf of the Anguilla House of Assembly:

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the British Royal Family.

As the longest serving monarch in the United Kingdom's history, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's reign has been marked by her overwhelming sense of service, strength of character and personal warmth to everyone who had the honour of meeting her.

Her Majesty's touch was felt throughout the Commonwealth and Anguilla as an Overseas territory was honoured by her visit. The world has lost a champion of peace and stability.

Today, we the people of Anguilla join with the citizens of the UK and millions around the world in mourning the loss of an extraordinary monarch, an influential leader, and an inspirational person. Our prayers are with King Charles II and the rest of Her Majesty's family.

Statement on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Head of State of Antigua and Barbuda, has reached the Prime Minister, Hon. Gaston Browne MP:

The Prime Minister expresses his condolences to His Majesty King Charles III and the Royal Family, to the British Government and to the people of the United Kingdom, on behalf of the people and Government of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Prime Minister notes that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth reigned for seven decades, winning the respect and high regard from every corner of the world. Her Majesty’s leadership of the Commonwealth of Nations has been superb, joining the hands of the English-speaking states across continents and regions.

"Her Majesty’s life personified the simplest of qualities – tolerance and decency. Her ability to inspire and unite has been one of the many remarkable features of her life which we all admire.”

Before being accorded the role of Head of the State of Antigua and Barbuda, beginning 1st November 1981, Her Majesty was shown great affection by the people of our country on her visits, and whenever represented by members of the Royal Family.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has had an impactful reign, during which her relations with my State and its people have remained mutually respectful and unchanging. All flags throughout the State will be flown at half-mast up until the day of Her Majesty’s burial. God save the King!

Statement from the Governor-General of The Bahamas, His Excellency The Most Honourable Sir Cornelius A. Smith, ON, GCMG 

On behalf of the Government and People of The Bahamas, His Excellency The Most Honourable Sir Cornelius Smith, ON. GCMG, expresses deep sadness on learning of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In expressing his sadness, His Excellency recalls Her Majesty's several visits to The Bahamas at which time she was joyfully received by our people. His Excellency invites all Bahamians to join in prayer for the repose of the soul of Her Majesty, and for the bereaved members of the Royal Family.

Statement at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II from Her Excellency The President of Barbados, Dame The Most Hon. Sandra Mason:

Today, on behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, I extend sincere and heartfelt condolences to members of the Royal family and the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the head of the Commonwealth.

While her passing marks the end of an era, her reign will forever represent the kind of stoic determination our world has required of its leaders over the past century, but which, sadly, we have not always been able to witness.

And today, given the most precarious position facing the world, and the threat it poses to the wellbeing of millions, we may all find a most valuable lesson in the strength of character and concern for humanity that were so much a feature of her seventy (70) years on the British Throne.

Just under one year ago, Barbados took the decision to complete the course of Independence by breaking constitutional ties with the British monarchy and establishing the world’s newest republic. Significant as that decision was, given the place Barbados has held in the British Empire for centuries, it did not in the least diminish the friendship between our two nations or, indeed, with Buckingham Palace. The presence of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at that ceremony signified the depth and warmth of those bonds.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will always hold a special place in our hearts and we in Barbados will always treasure the memories of her visits to the island, in particular on Wednesday, the nineteenth of February 1975 when she knighted our first National Hero the Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers on the Garrison Savannah.

So today, as we acknowledge the passing of Britain’s longest serving monarch, we pay respect to this most treasured and valued world figure. Her Majesty The Queen will come to be recognised as one of the most iconic global leaders in the post-World War II era. This high regard with which she was held is a testament to the quality of her reign.

Our prayers and thoughts rest now with the King and Queen Consort, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and all other members of the Royal Family, the people and Government of the United Kingdom.

May the soul of Her Majesty rest in eternal peace.

Statement by Hon. Valerie Woods, Speaker of the National Assembly of Belize:

Governor General Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam expressed deep sorrow, sincere condolences on behalf of the Belizean people on the passing of the Sovereign, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The end of an era.

Condolences to the Royal Family.

Via Twitter

The Premier of Bermuda, Hon. David Burt sent his condolences to Queen Elizabeth II.

“A life of undimmed duty, a model of strength and devotion to country…On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, I express sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom.”

At a special sitting of the Parliament of Bermuda, Members paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.

The President of the Senate of Bermuda, Hon. Joan E. Dillas-Wright recalled being a school pupil waving a flag to greet the Queen on her first visit to Bermuda in 1953.

The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Dennis Lister, JP, MP, said that the session was to reflect on a life of "incomparable duty" and he noted that The Queen had a life of privilege but also held certain core ideals. He recalled that it was just a couple of months ago that he spent time with the now King Charles III in the UK and the then-Prince had noted how proud the Speaker must be to have his son sit in Parliament with him, where Dennis Lister III is also an MP.

The Cayman Islands Parliament held a special meeting to pay tribute to Her Late Majesty The Queen at the House of Parliament, on 12 September 2022.

Although the session is not a requirement of any Overseas Territories during the period of National Mourning, the meeting was called by the Speaker, Hon Dr. McKeeva Bush, JP who felt compelled to honour Her Late Majesty along with fellow Parliamentarians. The public was invited to attend as Queen Elizabeth II had been a symbol of constancy in the lives of Caymanians for the last seven decades.

The Speaker opened with a heartfelt address to the large somber crowd saying

“We have all seen over the past days that her passing has caused great gloom to many who have known or met her. The grief is unbelievable, unbearable at this time but her passing also brings extraordinary solidarity across nations and we feel collectively a sense of loss and deep sadness. It is at this juncture that we more fully value what she represented and stood for. She has left a remarkable spirit of reconciliation and harmony that at this time is felt with particular poignancy.”

The Prime Minister of Dominica, Hon. Dr Roosevelt Skerrit conveyed condolences to the Royal Family and people of the United Kingdom on the demise of Queen Elizabeth II. He stated:

“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II inspired respect around the world and conducted the affairs of the Commonwealth with grace and dignity for 70 years. Her passing marks a profound loss for the Commonwealth of Nations and the world. On behalf of the government and people of Dominica, I extend deepest condolences to His Majesty the King, The Queen Consort, the other members of the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom.”

The Governor-General of Grenada Dame Cécile La Grenade expressed condolences on the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II:

"I am deeply saddened to have received notification of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll. I wish to express my condolences and sympathies to the members of the Royal family, the Government and the people of the United Kingdom.

Today we mourn the loss of this great enduring Monarch who served her country and the Commonwealth with incomparable devotion for more than 70 years.

Although she will be greatly missed, her legacy of leadership and exemplary service shall live on indelibly.

I shall always remember Her Majesty with great fondness and admiration. May she rest in peace."

The Prime Minister of Grenada, Hon. Dickon Mitchell said:

“I am sincerely saddened to learn of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. As Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty’s steady leadership helped to unite people and countries from around the globe in common cause, and for this, Queen Elizabeth II will always be remembered. We mourn her passing and will continue to honour her legacy.”

The President of Guyana, Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali sent his condolences to the Royal Family and people of the UK saying Guyanese people will always remember Her Majesty’s visits to the country.

“I join all Guyanese in expressing our profound and deepest sorrow at the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Her passing marks the end of an era in the history of the British Monarchy, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth of Nations,” he said

“Queen Elizabeth’s place in history is assured and her legacy is intact. Her long and impactful reign has helped to shape the post-World War II world. Her Majesty has been a source of stability for her country. She will be long remembered for her sterling leadership of the Commonwealth of Nations.”

A statement on behalf of the Montserrat Legislature said:

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II served with quiet dignity and integrity for 70 years. Her influence and service will forever be remembered.

The Montserrat Legislative Assembly joins with the rest of the world in celebrating a life well lived and in extending our sincerest condolences to her family and to the people of the United Kingdom.

Statement by Hon. Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Parliament of Jamaica

It is with deep sadness this afternoon that the House of Representatives of Jamaica learnt of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the 8th September this month. For sure it is the people of Jamaica held Queen Elizabeth II in high regard.

For us, The Queen was the embodiment of fortitude, dignity and grace. Her Majesty demonstrated the importance of being diligent in duty and in service to all people. We will remember The Queen’s life-long support for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, of which this Parliament is a part.

I extend heartfelt sympathy to the members of the Royal Family on the passing of one who has truly made such a significant contribution to the fabric of modern world history. The Hon. House of Representatives of Jamaica requests His Excellency The Governor-General to convey to Buckingham Palace on our behalf our sincere expressions of deep sorry on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Statement by the Acting Governor-General of St Lucia, H.E. Errol Charles:

"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as Head of the Commonwealth and Queen of St Lucia has served us with great pride and with dignity and will be surely missed. The Government and People of St Lucia join with the rest of the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty. We extend our deepest condolences to His Majesty King Charles III and to the Royal Family on this very solemn occasion." 

The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Hon. Dr Terrance Drew issued a statement on the death of HM Queen Elizabeth ll.

The Government and People of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis join with Governments and People around the world to mourn the passing and to celebrate the life, service and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll. Her reign was marked by dignity, duty, quiet faith and piety.

We offer payers to the Royal Family, Government and People of the UK and those who love her.

The Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Hon. Dr Ralph Gonsalves expressed his condolences on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Describing Queen Elizabeth II as a ‘woman of dignity’, he said that she had a long reign and was a ‘Head of State who kept stability for the British in the United Kingdom and who, as head of the Commonwealth, titularly, made important contributions to the advancement of democracy and the decolonization of former British colonies’.

Speaker of the House of Representatives of Trinidad and Tobago, Hon. Brigid Annisette-George MP paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II whose reign, she said, was characterised by unwavering dedication and service to her people.

The Speaker addressed the tenor of The Queen's reign, noting that she became a symbol of leadership for women when she first inherited the Crown.

"The restraints on her role, which demanded abstinence from political commentary and any perceptions of political bias, however, did not prevent her from making statements in support of women’s equality and bolstering these statements by her actions. Who can forget when Her Majesty chauffeured another Monarch on her Scottish estate? Or her statement in 2011 at the British Commonwealth Summit in Australia encouraging societies “to find ways to allow girls and women to play their full part,”

The Speaker also reflected on the Queen's visit to Trinidad and Tobago in 1966 when she, herself, was among the gleeful school children assembled along the streets of Port-of-Spain proudly waving the national flag in welcoming her.

Turning her attention to the Queen's leadership, The Speaker noted that Her Majesty demonstrated her ability to pivot and serve the people of England in good times and bad.

"The Royal Family, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth underwent constant changes and experienced significant challenges during her reign and Her Majesty the Queen presided over them all, epitomising duty, stability, wisdom and grace. I admire Her Majesty, in times of war, the Queen served alongside her people and in times of the uncertainty of change, she stood firmly and supportively with her people."

"Her Majesty the Queen has fulfilled her promise to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth when she vowed that her whole life whether long or short shall be devoted to their service. This is a promise that all the leaders of our beloved twin-island Republic, present and future, including myself, should aspire to fulfil for the people of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. I dare to add that the Queen fulfilled this role with great humility and I can help but note with stylish elegance. Her legacy for me evidences that concomitant with privilege is service, duty, responsibility and restraint."

An extract from the statement of the Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, His Excellency Nigel John Dakin CMG on the death of Queen Elizabeth II:

It is with great sadness that I announce the death of our Monarch, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second. She leaves us, at the age of 96, in the 70th year of her reign, and during her Platinum Jubilee; a lifetime of quite extraordinary service to the Realm and the Commonwealth.

Her Majesty’s death releases her from the promise she made to her people as a 25 year old. On the passing of her own father, she said: “I am called on to assume the duties and responsibilities of sovereignty. My heart is too full for me to say more to you today than I shall always work, as my father did, throughout his reign, to advance the happiness and prosperity of my peoples, spread as they are all over the world”.

Her late Majesty epitomised the notion of service. It is hard for me to express my own personal sorrow at her passing let alone capture, properly, the thoughts of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands but I can try.

She was a truly great Monarch, the longest serving we have ever had. Hers was a remarkable reign sat against over 1,000 years of Monarchy. Her Majesty embraced service from a young age: an officer in our Armed Forces during World War II she drove and maintained trucks before taking the throne far earlier than she ever expected. She went on to invest herself completely in the Commonwealth.

Reigning during the period of 15 Prime Ministers she has provided a reassuring backdrop to all of our lives. She became our Queen, while we in TCI were still a dependency of Jamaica. It would take a further 10 years before John Glenn would splash down just off Grand Turk following his three orbits of the earth, a further 21 years before TCI had its first Governor and 24 years until JAGS McCartney won the 1976 election.

As we remember her today we recall the Queen was a committed Christian and churchgoer and – as I mentioned at the Queen’s Birthday Parade - often spoke of her faith. In her 2014 Christmas Broadcast she said: “For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life…A role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, he stretched out his hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ’s example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people of whatever faith or none”.

Statement from the Governor of the British Virgin Islands, H.E. John Rankin, CMG

I know the people of the British Virgin Islands will be deeply saddened by this news and will join me in a period of mourning for Her Majesty The Queen. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time.

Her Majesty gave exemplary and loyal service throughout her life. She was a friend to the British Virgin Islands visiting twice, in 1966 arriving on the Royal Yacht Britannia which was anchored in Road Harbour, and returning again in 1977 when she laid the foundation stone for a new wing of Peebles Hospital.

We will remember her with great fondness and respect.

Statement by the Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr Natalio D. Wheatley

Like most of you, I was saddened to learn of the passing earlier today of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the British Overseas Territories, Crown Dependencies and other realms; and Head of the Commonwealth.

At 96 and having just celebrated her platinum jubilee, Her Majesty was the longest serving Head of State; her reign spanning generations. She was an iconic figure and an inspiration to millions, especially women, as her tenure, noble service and achievements defied and shattered the glass ceiling that was so prominent only a few decades ago.

Her Majesty was elevated to the role of heir presumptive in 1936 at the age of 10 following unanticipated circumstances that changed the line of succession. She ascended to the throne at the age of 25 upon the passing of her father, King George VI, in 1952. Many doubted whether her youth, her limited experience and even her gender were suitable or appropriate for the tremendous responsibility of Monarch at that time. But with courage, Her Majesty stepped into her role and owned it with confidence for every moment of the last 70 years since - ruling through international social, political and technological revolutions and many periods of challenge and triumph.

Virgin Islanders and residents who are old enough, will remember Her Majesty’s two visits to the Virgin Islands. First in 1966, Her Majesty was accompanied by her husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Then again in 1977 when my grandfather, Chief Minister Dr the Honourable Willard Wheatley, had the honour of hosting her here in the Territory.

The people of the Virgin Islands welcomed her visits to these shores and the opportunity to interact with her. Historians recall, in both visits, Her Majesty’s cool composure, confidence and charm as she mingled with residents at handicraft and agricultural exhibitions, the hospital, schools, the opening of the bridge named in her honour, and other places she visited. She made a lasting connection which has endured until today.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II leaves with us a legacy that reflects an unconquerable spirit, a monarch who was driven by her confidence in herself and her abilities. She will be remembered here in these Virgin Islands and around the world for her noble service to humankind.

We join the world in mourning Her Majesty, and On behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, and on behalf of myself and family, I extend condolences to the Royal Family, British citizens around the world, and the Commonwealth Community on the Queen’s passing.

Let us pray for God’s Blessings upon her, and that she rests in Everlasting Peace.

The Prime Minister of India, Hon. Shri Narendra Modi paid his condolences after the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a stalwart of our times. She provided inspiring leadership to her nation and people. She personified dignity and decency in public life. Pained by her demise. My thoughts are with her family and people of UK in this sad hour.

“I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture.”

The Prime Minister, Hon. Mark Brown acknowledged with ‘great sadness’ the passing of ‘Our Queen and the Head of State of the Cook Islands’.

‘All her people of the Cook Islands will mourn the passing of our Queen and will miss her greatly. I am sure that I share with all of our people the deep admiration and respect that we held for our Queen. Her Majesty leaves behind an enormous legacy of dedicated service to her subjects including ourselves, around the world. As the world changed around her, she endured and provided the strength and constancy for her people. And while her country may have lost a Queen, the world has lost a truly towering figure.’

The Clerk of Parliament, Tangata Vainerere also announced that a recently renovated Committee room and library in Parliament will be named the Queen Elizabeth Gallery, in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Prime Minister of Fiji, Hon. Frank Bainimarama, MP issued a statement saying “Fijian hearts are heavy this morning as we bid farewell to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

We will always treasure the joy of her visits to Fiji along with every moment that her grace, courage, and wisdom were a comfort and inspiration to our people, even a world away.”

Statement by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Parliament of New Zealand, Rt Hon. Adrian Rurawhe, MP:

“On behalf of the Office of Speaker and New Zealand House of Representatives, I express my condolences and deepest sympathies to the Royal Family."

“When the Queen was crowned in 1953, New Zealand was a very different place, and while our nation has changed immensely over the past 70 years she has been a constant guide for our Parliament and our people.”

The Sovereign is a constituent part of the New Zealand Parliament. As the Head of State, the Sovereign is integral to New Zealand’s constitutional arrangements, including giving Royal assent to bills, summoning and dissolving Parliament and delivering the Speech from the Throne at the opening of Parliament.

“I acknowledge all her Majesty has done for our country during her reign. Of particular note is her acknowledgement of efforts to resolve historical grievances between Māori and the Crown, such as when she delivered a personal apology from the British Crown to the Tainui people in 1995.”

“For many New Zealanders, including myself, Queen Elizabeth II is the only Sovereign we have ever known. She will be commemorated and remembered as kōtuku—the white heron—in recognition of the reverence many New Zealanders have for her.”

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape said that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was “the anchor of our Commonwealth” and fondly known as "Mama Queen because she was the matriarch of our country as much as she was to her family and Sovereign realms."

“In reflection of the life she lived, the exemplary performance of duties as the head of the state of Papua New Guinea, it is in this connection that we all gather here this morning to acknowledge her passing and to acknowledge and witness the ascension of the throne of King Charles III.”

Condolences for the the passing of Queen Elizabeth II - The Head of State of Samoa - Afioga i le Ao Mamalu o le Malo, Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II expressed on behalf of the government and the people of Samoa, deepest condolences to His Majesty King Charles III for the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Afioga i le Ao Mamalu stated that “Her Majesty's reign represented strength, stability and inspired leadership, and in a rapidly changing world and challenges, Her Majesty's selfless service was a constant point of wisdom and courage for the people of Samoa”. “Her Majesty will be warmly remembered for her dedication, unwavering support and immeasurable contribution to the development and advancement of the people of Samoa, the Pacific region, and the Commonwealth family alike.” 

The Head of State also extended Samoa’s prayers of comfort to the Royal Family, people, and the Government of the United Kingdom during this time of sorrow.

The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare has conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the Government and People of the United Kingdom on the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II describing the news of the passing “as a very sad and solemn day for Solomon Islands, for countries of the Commonwealth and the world”.

“I invite you all to pray for the Royal family at this very difficult time and ask for God’s grace and comfort to be with the members of the Royal Family as they come to terms with this major loss.”

The Prime Minister also called on citizens to pray for the leaders and people of all Commonwealth countries who are united in grief and sadness yet held together with the knowledge that the late Head of State had served her country, her Realm, and her people in the Realm for 70 years.

“Let us celebrate with confidence that our late Queen is now with our heavenly father in Heaven in joyful rest after more than half a century of service to her people.”

The Speaker of Tonga's Legislative Assembly, Hon. Lord Fakafanua signed the book of condolence for the CPA Patron at the British High Commission’s Office in Nuku’alofa and “conveyed the deepest condolences of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga to His Majesty King Charles III, the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom on the loss of their Sovereign, Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”

This included, condolence letters to the Speaker of the UK House of Lords, Rt Hon. Lord McFall of Alcluith and to the Speaker of the UK House of Commons, Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MP.

"In these letters, Lord Fakafanua conveyed the Legislative Assembly’s profound sympathies and expressed their sincere appreciation for Her Majesty’s decades of strong and steady leadership, not only in the United Kingdom but also throughout Her Commonwealth Family of Nations, in which Tonga remains a proud member."

HE Lucy Joyce, British High Commissioner to Tonga, received the Speaker who was accompanied by the Chief Clerk, Gloria Pole’o.

Statement by Raymond K. Manuake, Clerk of the Parliament of the Republic of Vanuatu:

It is with deep sadness that the Parliament of the Republic of Vanuatu, a member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), learnt of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the CPA Patron and Head of the Commonwealth.

We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of the CPA Patron and join the many tributes from Parliamentarians across the Commonwealth. As Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty recognised the importance of the organisation's core values and aspirations expressed through the Commonwealth Charter, which she signed in 2013, including democracy, human rights and peace. The Queen was also a strong advocate for the young people of the Commonwealth.

As CPA Patron, Her Majesty was a tireless supporter of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the work of Commonwealth Parliaments and Parliamentarians in promoting democracy.

On behalf of the Parliament and the people of the Republic of Vanuatu, we are deeply saddened to learn of her passing.

Please accept and transmit our sincere and heartfelt condolence and sympathy to the Toyal Family, the Government and People of Great Britain.

On behalf of the CPA Malaysia Branch and the Parliament of Malaysia, Hon. Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, Chairperson of CPA Malaysia Branch:

"It is with huge sadness that I write to express my deeply condolences at the news of the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

On behalf of CPA Malaysia and on my personal behalf, please give my words of sincere sympathy and support to the members of the Royal Family and all the people of Great Britain."

Statement by Leader of the House, Minister Indranee Rajah:

Mr Speaker, Sir, on behalf of the Singapore Parliament, I would like to pay tribute to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who passed away on 8 September 2022.

I would also like to acknowledge Her Excellency Kara Owen, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to the Republic of Singapore, who is here with us in the House today in the upper gallery.

Her Late Majesty was not only Queen of the United Kingdom but also the Head of the Commonwealth, a family of 56 nations across the globe, of which Singapore is a proud member.

Queen Elizabeth had a unique role in Singapore’s history. She was Queen during Singapore’s transition from a crown colony to an independent state, including when the fledgling legislature that would eventually become this Parliament was born.

After the landmark general election of 1955, at the inaugural session of the Singapore Legislative Assembly, the forerunner of this Parliament, she sent a congratulatory message that was delivered in this House on 22 April 1955, which said:

“I am glad at the opening of the first session of the Legislative Assembly under the New Constitution of Singapore to express to my people in Singapore my great satisfaction at the significant advance in their constitutional progress which is marked by this occasion. The Council of Ministers will now have to deal with the many problems of Government and upon them will fall the chief burden of responsibility for the continued advancement and prosperity of Singapore and for the welfare and safety of its citizens.

I look forward with every confidence to the faithful discharge of this trust for I am sure that those on whom this responsibility falls will carry it out with foresight, courage and honesty of purpose. It is my earnest hope that the work of the Legislative Assembly under the New Constitution will be blest with every success."

Throughout her remarkable life, The Queen was the epitome of duty, stability, wisdom and grace. Above all, she embodied duty and service before self, in an unbroken thread through the decades.

On her 21st birthday, she dedicated her life to the Commonwealth in these words “I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.” Her life was indeed long, and she more than fulfilled that pledge – quietly, steadfastly and humbly – in the service of her country and the Commonwealth. She showed her humility in the less often quoted next sentence of the speech, “But I shall not have strength to carry out this resolution alone unless you join in it with me, as I now invite you to do”.

The Queen continued to discharge her duties right to the end, including meeting with and appointing The Right Honourable Elizabeth Truss as her 15th Prime Minister just two days before she passed.

However, beyond duty and public service, Queen Elizabeth was also loved because of her personal touch, and the warmth, sincerity and graciousness that she displayed to people from all walks of life. She was charming, witty and disarming, with an intrinsic ability to put someone immediately at ease. I can personally attest to these attributes, having had the privilege of meeting her as Singapore’s representative at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in 2002, the year of her Golden Jubilee.

Between The Queen and Singapore there has always been a reciprocal relationship of warmth and affection.

She made three State Visits to Singapore: in 1972, 1989 and 2006. During these visits, she enjoyed the unique sights, sounds and experiences of Singapore.

Beyond the formality and ceremonials involved in State Visits, The Queen took the time and effort to get to know ordinary Singaporeans better. In 1972, she visited Toa Payoh where she met Mr Thomas Pung and his family in their HDB flat. They graciously invited her into their home and offered her a drink: a glass of 7Up. 34 years later in 2006 on her third State Visit, she visited the Pungs again. On her second State Visit in 1989, The Queen visited Ang Mo Kio, where one young girl was photographed presenting her with a bouquet of flowers. Her name was He Ting Ru, and she is now a Member of Parliament.

Although she did not visit in the last decade, The Queen would also be a familiar figure to our younger generations, many of whom have studied, worked or holidayed in the United Kingdom.

During her long reign, The Queen received countless gifts from around the world. Members will be happy to note that at least a couple from Singapore appear to have meant something to her. On her first State Visit, she visited the Rollei factory at Kampong Chai Chee of which we were very proud. They presented her with a small gold-plated 35mm Rollei camera made in Singapore. The Queen was quite a keen photographer, and made good use of it. We learnt this only when she celebrated her 70 th wedding anniversary, and BBC carried an old photo of her using the distinctive camera, which some of us were old enough to recognise and remember.

The second gift is a gold and diamond Peranakan brooch, referred to by Buckingham Palace as the Singapore Shield Brooch, which was presented to her on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee in 2012 by then-President Dr Tony Tan. By some accounts, she wore this brooch more than 20 times, most recently at the opening of the Elizabeth Line in May 2022 for her Platinum Jubilee.

The Queen’s association with Singapore continues to be marked in and around our city. Queen Elizabeth Walk, along Marina Bay, and Queenstown, Singapore’s first satellite town, were named to commemorate her coronation in 1953. Places and roads in Queenstown are named after places in Scotland where she spent time during her childhood, such as Strathmore, Forfar, and Stirling. Princess Elizabeth Primary School in Bukit Batok was also named after her. We have kept these place and school names. They record part of our history, and reflect our continued high regard for Her Late Majesty and our enduring friendly relations with the United Kingdom.

The passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II marks the end of an era.

On behalf of this House, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to His Majesty King Charles III and the Royal Family and to the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Mr Speaker, Sir, as a mark of respect, I propose that the House observe a minute of silence.