Queen Elizabeth II dies aged 96, networks scrap schedules to cover developments

Queen Elizabeth II (cc: Joel Rouse)

Queen Elizabeth II has died aged 96, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.

The Queen’s ill health had been reported heavily during Thursday afternoon, with UK broadcasters adjusting their schedules and running special news reports.

The Palace confirmed the Queen’s passing at 18.30, with the royal having led the British monarchy since 1952.

UK pubcaster the BBC, which had already suspended its programming on flagship BBC One, is now covering the Queen’s passing across all its channels, while special programmes are also on air across fellow terrestrials ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5.

News of her death came hours after Buckingham Palace confirmed that the Queen had been under medical supervision at her Scottish residence in Balmoral after doctors became concerned for her health.

The Queen, who was the country’s longest-serving monarch, was described as “comfortable” by officials, with her family – including Prince Charles, the Duke of Cambridge, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex – flying to Scotland to be with the 96-year-old.

She will be succeeded as the head of state by her eldest son Charles, the former Price of Wales, who will become King.

Detailed plans in the event of the Queen’s passing have been in place for decades, which will see 10 days of official mourning.

Operation London Bridge and Operation Unicorn, the latter tailored if the Queen passed way in Scotland, include the minutiae of how the following days will unfold, with broadcasters pulling comedy and satirical programming, and newsreaders wearing black clothing.

A statement from Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and the Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”