Responding to the Royal Household’s announcement that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has died, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, which represents more than 350 councils across England and Wales, said:

“On behalf of all councils across England and Wales, I’d like to express our sincere condolences to the whole Royal Family on the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I have today written to The King following the news.

“Her Majesty’s dedication to every one of us, alongside her continuous hard work and loyalty to her United Kingdom, was clear to see throughout her life. Her high regard for local government was also truly reflective in her focus and appreciation of councils’ work and determination in her annual Queen’s Speeches.

“Councils have been proud to serve Her Majesty throughout her reign and will continue to do so by now putting into place local arrangements to support the public in expressing their own sympathies. These arrangements will include the opening of both public and virtual books of condolence, ensuring flags are flown at half mast, and overseeing arrangements for the laying of flowers in public areas.”