Operation Menai Bridge: Code name for Prince Charles's death plans
King Charles III, who ascended the throne in September 2022 following Queen Elizabeth II's reign, has been battling cancer since January 2024. His health has been on a steady decline since his diagnosis, which was discovered after surgery for a non-cancerous prostate condition. The latest report suggests his funeral preparations are being updated under the codename Operation Menai Bridge. Planning for King Charles's demise and subsequent action began shortly after his coronation, as is the norm.
Know more about the codename; what's the use
This codename pays tribute to the former Prince of Wales and is inspired by the world's first iron suspension bridge located in Anglesey, Wales. The operation will include the announcement of his death, the period of official mourning, and the details of Charles's state funeral. Such operations are in place to make the transition from one ruler to the next smooth. A similar plan called the Operation London Bridge was put into action following Queen Elizabeth II's demise.
What happens when the King dies?
Upon the passing of King Charles III, his eldest son, Prince William, is set to become king. His wife, Kate Middleton will assume the role of queen consort. Charles's private secretary will notify key figures about his demise, including family members, the prime minister, the cabinet secretary, and senior ministers and officials as well as the King's Privy Council Office. An official announcement will be released to inform the public with pre-prepared scripts outlining how officials should disseminate the news.
What will happen after the King's death?
Following the King's death, the cabinet secretary will inform ministers and senior civil servants via email. Flags at Whitehall will be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning. The prime minister will be the first government official to issue a statement. This will be followed by gun salutes coordinated by the Ministry of Defence and a national minute of silence. Subsequently, the new king, William, will address the nation in a broadcast.
Official websites will mark these changes
The King's coffin will lie in state in Buckingham Palace's throne room. His final resting place will be the royal vault in King George VI Memorial Chapel at Windsor Castle. After the King's demise, the British royal family's website will transition to a black holding page with a brief statement confirming his death. The UK government website and all government departmental social media pages will also feature a black banner and change their profile pictures to their departmental crest.
