King or queen Elizabeth II, who ruled the United Kingdom for 70 years, passed away on Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. She passed away at the age of 96. Notably, her passing ends one of the longest head of state reigns in history as well as the longest in the history of the United Kingdom.
According to a statement released by Buckingham Palace, “The Queen passed away quietly in Balmoral this afternoon. The King and the Queen Consort [Charles and Camilla] will remain at Balmoral this evening and go back to London tomorrow [Friday].”
Operation Unicorn: What is it?
Following Buckingham Palace’s formal announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s death, the so-called plan of action, now known as “Operation Unicorn” rather than “Operation London Bridge,” has been put into motion.
As per media sources, there were specific plans and safeguards known as “Operation Unicorn” in place should the monarch pass away while she was in Scotland. Unbeknownst to the uninitiated, the lion of England and the unicorn of Scotland are both shown on the royal shield of arms.
Operation London Bridge: What is it?
Operation London Bridge, which includes preparations for the news of her passing, the duration of official mourning, and the specifics of her state funeral, is the blueprint for what would transpire in the United Kingdom following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
An important point is that the plan, which was established in the 1960s, has specific instructions on how to manage the first 10 days following Her Majesty’s passing, assuring a seamless transfer of power to her oldest son, Prince Charles, who now automatically becomes the monarchy.
What plan is to be implemented following her passing?
The news of Her Majesty’s passing will be announced outside Buckingham Palace, the royal home, and all flags in the UK will be flown at half-staff during this period. Additionally, the national broadcaster of the United Kingdom, the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation), will sound an alert in case of a national emergency.
Read more: Queen Elizabeth II passes away at 96
