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Queen Elizabeth's last speech and her thoughts on final partings

In her last year the monarch gave the nation a poignant official christmas message, celebrated her platinum jubilee, appeared with paddington bear and performed a final vital constitutional act, five of the queen's last public appearances.

In her final official address to the nation, on Christmas Day 2021, Queen Elizabeth II ’s opening words had a deep resonance over what has now passed following a year of dwindling public appearances.

“Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones. This year, especially, I understand why.”

Her ability to capture the nation’s emotions with a sense of shared empathy was the glue that held Britain together at time of national crisis, as witnessed in the address during the Covid-19 pandemic in which almost 150,000 people had died by Christmas 2021.

She then referred to her husband, Prince Philip, who had died in April and the comfort she found from the many tributes paid to him.

She then gave her own very personal memory praising the prince’s “capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation,” then revealed her adoration for him: “That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him.”

The sad prescience of the speech continues. “But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas.”

The poignant message was her last official address to the nation. The queen remained in Windsor Castle, which after Balmoral was her favoured residence, awaiting her next major appearance for the platinum jubilee.

Platinum jubilee appearance

Having reigned for an unprecedented 70 years on the throne, Britain wanted to give Queen Elizabeth an appropriate mark of respect. In February, ahead of Accession Day, she cut a cake baked to acknowledge her 70 years on the throne as she met members of the Sandringham community, joking "I don't matter" when told it was facing the cameras rather than herself. In May, she also paid a brief visit to Paddington Station where she opened the new Elizabeth Line.

However, when it came to the official long weekend celebrations in June, it was clear over the four days that she was becoming frail but not so infirm that she could not record a piece of television that will be played for years to come.

The queen was filmed having tea with a British icon, Paddington Bear, in a delightful sketch shown on a big screen at her jubilee concert.

In the two-and-a-half minute sketch, kept secret even from her close family, Paddington shows the queen what he hides underneath his large hat ― his beloved marmalade sandwiches.

The queen grins then confides: “So do I” and opens her handbag removing her own sandwich. “I keep mine in here.”

A butler announces the platinum party is about to begin and in a warm voice, Paddington turns to the queen and says: “Happy Jubilee Ma'am, and thank you...for everything,” to which she replies: “That's very kind.”

During the extended public holiday weekend, she was seen cutting a cake

The queen managed to watch the military’s Trooping the Colour ceremony but it was rumoured that she was too tired to attend the finale events of a large celebrity-attended carnival down The Mall, celebrating seven decades of her rule.

But towards the end the distinct sovereign’s flag was hoisted above Buckingham Palace and minutes later the queen appeared on the balcony in a striking green dress accompanied by her son Charles, grandson Prince William and great-grandson Prince George.

As the national anthem of “God Save Our Queen” was played, the message of the continuity through the generations was clear. The applause and cheers were rapturous.

Final public event

Tired but elated, she retired to Windsor only to make a surprise appearance with her daughter Princess Anne on 15 July to open a hospice a short drive away in Maidenhead.

The sun shone as did the Queen’s smile, chatting to staff and terminally ill patients before drawing a small curtain to reveal a plaque at Thames Hospice celebrating the last ever of her thousands of official openings.

In early August she flew up to Balmoral, her traditional summer retreat where she could freely roam the Scottish Highlands.

Final act as queen

But her strength was ebbing away and Buckingham Palace let it be known that she would receive the next prime minister at Balmoral rather than in London.

Using a walking stick, with her disarming smile, Queen Elizabeth welcomed her 15th prime minister on Tuesday, the audience officially allowing Liz Truss to take on the vital duties of government.

It was a final act of duty that had immensely important constitutional implications, giving Ms Truss enough time to appoint a Cabinet approved by the sovereign to begin Britain’s fight against the brewing economic storm.

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Princess Anne Was With the Queen For the Last ’24 Hours of Her Life’—Inside Her Final Moments

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Since her death, well wishers have wondered what Queen Elizabeth ‘s last words were and what her final moments with the British royal family were like before she passed.

Queen Elizabeth II is the first child of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. She became Queen of the United Kingdom as well as the other Commonwealth countries in February 1952 after the death of her father. She was 25 years old at the time. She was married to Philip Mountbatten, a former prince of Greece and Denmark, from November 1947 until Prince Philip’s death in April 2021. The two had four children together: Charles , Prince of Wales; Anne, Princess Royal; Prince Andrew, Duke of York; and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.

After more than 70 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022. She was 96 years old. In a 1957 Christmas Broadcast, the Queen promised the United Kingdom she would give her “heart” and “devotion” to the Commonwealth. “I cannot lead you into battle,” she said at the time. “I do not give you laws or administer justice, but I can do something else: I can give my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations.”

'Elizabeth the Queen' by Sally Bedell Smith

The Queen’s death came three months after her Platinum Jubilee event in June 2022, which celebrated her 70 years on the throne. After her Platinum Jubilee, the Queen thanked royal well-wishers for supporting her family. “When it comes to how to mark seventy years as your Queen, there is no guidebook to follow. It really is a first. But I have been humbled and deeply touched that so many people have taken to the streets to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee,” the Queen said in a statement at the time. She continued, “While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family.” She ended her message by telling her supporters about the “joy” she felt that weekend. “I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days, and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come. I thank you most sincerely for your good wishes and for the part you have all played in these happy celebrations,” she said at the time.

So what were Queen Elizabeth’s last words? Read on for what we know about Queen Elizabeth’s last words and her final moments with the British royal family before her death.

What were Queen Elizabeth’s last words?

What were Queen Elizabeth’s last words? Queen Elizabeth II’s exact last words aren’t known, however, her daughter, Princess Anne, revealed in a post on the British royal family’s official Instagram account in September 2022 that she was with the Queen in the last 24 hours of her life, which she called an “honor” and a “privilege.” “I was fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest Mother’s life,” she wrote at the time. “It has been an honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys. Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many on these journeys has been both humbling and uplifting. We will all share unique memories. I offer my thanks to each and every one who share our sense of loss.” Princess Anne continued, “We may have been reminded how much of her presence and contribution to our national identity we took for granted. I am also so grateful for the support and understanding offered to my dear brother Charles as he accepts the added responsibilities of The Monarch. To my mother, The Queen, thank you.”

The Queen’s death was announced at 6:41 p.m. London time on the British royal family’s official Twitter account. “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” Buckingham Palace’s statement read. “The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.” Newsweek’s Chief Royal Correspondent Jack Royston told True Royalty TV in September 2022 that Charles only learned of his mother’s health shortly before the public.

Royston also reported that TODAY host Jenna Bush Hager, told him earlier that week that she had a scheduled si-down interview with Camilla at Dumfries House when when they heard “footsteps” in the corridor. “Charles took a call, everything was silent, and they were asked to be silent. Then the next thing she knew, Charles and Camilla were in a helicopter,” Royston said. “And that was at 12:30, so that was around exactly the same time that we were told. So they didn’t wait, they didn’t give Charles an hour or two hours.” According to The Washington Post , however, the Queen’s death was rumored to occur at 3 p.m. London time, with Buckingham Palace notifying Prime Minister Liz Truss of the death at 4:30 p.m. London time.

While Queen Elizabeth’s last words aren’t known, 7News reported that the Queen’s final public statement after 70 years of service was a message of condolence she sent to the Canadian public after a stabbing rampage that left 10 people dead and 18 injured in the village of Weldor in Saskatchewan, Canada. “I would like to extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones in the attacks that occurred this past weekend in Saskatchewan. My thoughts and prayers are with those recovering from injuries, and grieving such horrific losses. I mourn with all Canadians at this tragic time,” the Queen’s statement read. The Queen’s death comes less than two years after the death of her husband, Prince Philip, who died on April 9, 2021. According to Hello , Queen Elizabeth’s last words to Philip were written in a handwritten card edged in black that she placed with a wreath of white lilies, small white roses, white freesias, white wax flowers, white sweet peas and jasmine on the top of his coffin at his funeral. “In loving memory, Elizabeth,” the card read.

Queen Elizabeth II is also a successor of Queen Elizabeth I, also known as the Virgin Queen, who was Queen of England and Ireland from 1558 until her death in 1603. According to RMG , Queen Elizabeth I’s last words were, “All my possessions for one moment of time.”

How did Queen Elizabeth die?

How did Queen Elizabeth die? Queen Elizabeth II died “peacefully” at her home at Balmoral Castle in Scotland in the afternoon of September 8, 2022. She was 96. Buckingham Palace confirmed her death in a statement. She will be succeeded by her son, Charles, Prince of Wales, who will now become King Charles III. Charles’ wife, Camila, Duchess of Cornwall, will now become The Queen Sonsort. “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” Buckingham Palace’s statement read. “The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.” The Queen’s death came hours after after Buckingham Palace announced that she had been placed under “medical supervision” due to “concerns” from her doctors. “Following further evaluation this morning, The Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision,” the Buckingham Palace said at the time. “The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral.” The statement continued, “Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall have traveled to Balmoral.”

After the Queen passed away, Charles—the heir apparent to the British royal throne and the Queen’s eldest son with her late husband, Prince Philip—honored his mother in a statement on the official Royal Family Twitter. “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” the statement read. “We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished sovereign, and much-loved mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world. During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection on which The Queen was so widely held.”

The Queen was surrounded by British royal family members at the time of her death. Along with Charles and Camila, the Queen’s second and third sons with Philip—Prince Andrew and Prince Edward—were seen arriving at Aberdeen Airport in Scotland shortly before her death. Prince Edward’s wife, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, was also seen arriving at the airport, as well as the Queen’s eldest grandson, Prince William. The Queen’s second eldest grandson, Prince Harry, wasn’t seen at Balmoral Castle until hours after her death. He traveled from Germany, where he and his wife, Meghan Markle, were promoting the Invictus Games, to Scotland. Meghan, for her part, didn’t join Harry at Balmoral Castle and remained in Germany at the time of the Queen’s death. William’s wife, Kate Middleton, also wasn’t present at Balmoral Castle and stayed in Windsor, England, as September 8 was the first day of school for her and William’s children: Prince George, 9, Princess Charlotte, 7, and Prince Louis, 4.

What was Queen Elizabeth’s cause of death?

What was Queen Elizabeth’s cause of death? Queen Elizabeth II’s cause of death hasn’t been confirmed. However, her death came hours after after Buckingham Palace announced that she had been placed under “medical supervision” due to “concerns” from her doctors. “Following further evaluation this morning, The Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision,” the Buckingham Palace said at the time. “The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral.” The statement continued, “Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall have traveled to Balmoral.”  The statement also came a day after the Queen cancelled a scheduled Privy Council meeting so he could rest. “After a full day yesterday, Her Majesty has this afternoon accepted doctors’ advice to rest,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement on September 7, 2022. “This means that the Privy Council meeting that had been due to take place this evening will be rearranged.”

Before her death, the Queen had been seen regularly using a cane since October 2021. That month, she cancelled a scheduled trip to Northern Ireland under the advice of her doctors and spent a night in the hospital. “The Queen has reluctantly accepted medical advice to rest for the next few days,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement at the time. “Her Majesty is in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements today and tomorrow.”

After her hospitalization, Buckingham Palace confirmed in a statement at the time that the Queen “remains in good spirits” following her overnight stay, where she underwent “preliminary investigations.” “Following medical advice to rest for a few days, the Queen attended hospital on Wednesday afternoon for some preliminary investigations, returning to Windsor Castle at lunchtime today and remains in good spirits,” the statement read.

The Queen’s death also came a year after she tested positive for COVID-19 following close contact with Charles, who contracted the virus earlier that month. At the time, celebrity gossip website Hollywood Unlocked , falsely reported that the Queen had died at the age of 95 from COVID-19. The site falsely reported at the time that the Queen was “found dead” after she was set to attend a wedding. “It is with our deepest regret to inform you that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth has died,” Hollywood Unlocked’s report read at the time. “Sources close to the Royal Kingdom notified us exclusively that Queen Elizabeth has passed away. She was scheduled to attend the wedding of British Vogue editor Edward Enninful, but was found dead.”

While the site didn’t credit any official royal  sources, Hollywood Unlocked CEO and founder Jason Lee took to his Twitter  at the time to back up the outlet’s report. “We don’t post lies and I always stand by my sources,” he wrote at the time. “Waiting for an official statement from the palace.” Lee later reiterated his stance on Instagram , writing, “I’ve never lied;” “I’ve never been wrong;” “I trust my sources;” and “I have yet to see an official statement from the palace saying otherwise,” in a numbered list. Despite Lee’s statement, however, the news of the Queen’s death at the time was false.

After the Queen tested positive for COVID-19 in February 2022, a source told Us Weekly at the time the monarch had been recovering “without any fuss” despite Hollywood Unlocked’s report of her death. “Of course, she has a team of doctors to lean on whenever needed and a support staff that’s second to none,” the insider told the magazine. “But thus far Her Majesty has been handling this without any fuss or need to involve too many others in her recovery.” After reports the Queen was still alive, Hollywood Unlocked issued a  statement on social media apologizing for the incorrect story and blaming the report on an “intern journalist” who “published the draft post by mistake.” The site added, “Our deepest apologies goes out to the #RoyalFamily and all involved in this embarrassing situation. It was an accident and we’re working hard to make sure that this mistake never happens again.”

For more about the British royal family, check out Sally Bedell Smith’s 2012 biography, Elizabeth the Queen: The Life of a Modern Monarch . The New York Times bestseller, which includes the “real story” behind several storylines featured in Netflix’s The Crown , follows Queen Elizabeth II’s life from her childhood as the “heiress presumptive” to her father, King George VI; to the moment he et her husband, Prince Philip, when she was 13 years old; to her ascension to the throne at 25 years old in 1952. Elizabeth the Queen, which also includes interviews with Buckingham Palace sources and never-before-revealed documents, provides a deep dive into the Queen’s legacy as one of the most famous monarchs in recent history.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

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The Queen’s last public statement and pictures

The United Kingdom has entered a period of national mourning following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8.

Her Majesty’s death marks the end of a 70-year reign, and follows the death of her husband, Prince Philip, who died earlier this year.

The statement issued by Buckingham Palace reads: “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.”

Upon her death, her eldest son Charles immediately ascended to the throne. It is expected that Charles will be officially proclaimed King on Saturday.

Here are the last moments of the Queen ’s reign.

What was the Queen’s last public statement?

The Queen sent out her last public statement to Canada , following the tragedy that struck the nation, where 10 people were stabbed to death, and a further 19 were injured.

In response to the cruel news, the Queen issued a message saying: “I would like to extend my condolences to those who have lost loved ones in the attacks that occurred this past weekend in Saskatchewan .

“My thoughts and prayers are with those recovering from injuries, and grieving such horrific losses.

“I mourn with all Canadians at this tragic time.”

The statement was made on Wednesday, September 7, the day before the Queen passed away.

The Queen’s last pictures

The Queen was last pictured in the Drawing Room at Balmoral on Tuesday (September 6), where she met the new Prime Minister Liz Truss .

The Queen was seen sporting a longline cardigan and a Balmoral tartan skirt.

The tartan, designed by Prince Albert, can only be worn by members of the Royal Family, or those given permission by the Queen.

The 96-year-old monarch didn’t make any public appearances during August due to health concerns.

The public had glimpses of the Queen in June for her Platinum Jubilee celebrations and during the Ceremony of the Keys event in Edinburgh.

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Queen's Speech 2021

Her Majesty’s most gracious speech to both Houses of Parliament.

My lords and members of the House of Commons.

My Government’s priority is to deliver a national recovery from the pandemic that makes the United Kingdom stronger, healthier and more prosperous than before.

To achieve this, my Government will level up opportunities across all parts of the United Kingdom, supporting jobs, businesses and economic growth and addressing the impact of the pandemic on public services.

My Government will protect the health of the nation, continuing the vaccination programme and providing additional funding to support the NHS. My Ministers will bring forward legislation to empower the NHS to innovate and embrace technology. Patients will receive more tailored and preventative care, closer to home [Health and Care Bill]. Measures will be brought forward to support the health and wellbeing of the nation, including to tackle obesity and improve mental health. Proposals on social care reform will be brought forward.

My Government will build on the success of the vaccination programme to lead the world in life sciences, pioneering new treatments against diseases like cancer and securing jobs and investment across the country.

My Ministers will oversee the fastest ever increase in public funding for research and development and pass legislation to establish an advanced research agency [Advanced Research and Invention Agency Bill].

Following the unprecedented support provided to businesses during the pandemic, proposals will be brought forward to create and support jobs and improve regulation.

My Government will strengthen the economic ties across the union, investing in and improving national infrastructure. Proposals will be taken forward to transform connectivity by rail and bus [High Speed Rail (Crewe – Manchester) Bill] and to extend 5G mobile coverage and gigabit capable broadband [Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill].

Legislation will support a lifetime skills guarantee to enable flexible access to high quality education and training throughout people’s lives [Skills and Post-16 Education Bill].

Measures will be introduced to ensure that support for businesses reflects the United Kingdom’s strategic interests and drives economic growth [Subsidy Control Bill]. Laws will simplify procurement in the public sector [Procurement Bill]. Eight new Freeports will create hubs for trade and help regenerate communities [National Insurance Contributions Bill].

My Government will ensure that the public finances are returned to a sustainable path once the economic recovery is secure.

Measures will be brought forward to ensure that children have the best start in life, prioritising their early years. My Ministers will address lost learning during the pandemic and ensure every child has a high quality education and is able to fulfil their potential.

My Government will help more people to own their own home whilst enhancing the rights of those who rent. Laws to modernise the planning system, so that more homes can be built, will be brought forward, along with measures to end the practice of ground rents for new leasehold properties [Planning Bill, Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Bill]. My Ministers will establish in law a new Building Safety Regulator to ensure that the tragedies of the past are never repeated [Building Safety Bill].

Measures will be brought forward to address racial and ethnic disparities and ban conversion therapy.

Legislation will support the voluntary sector by reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and releasing additional funds for good causes [Dormant Assets Bill, Charities Bill].

My Government will invest in new green industries to create jobs, while protecting the environment. The United Kingdom is committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and will continue to lead the way internationally by hosting the COP26 Summit in Glasgow. Legislation will set binding environmental targets [Environment Bill]. Legislation will also be brought forward to ensure the United Kingdom has, and promotes, the highest standards of animal welfare [Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill, Kept Animals Bill, Animals Abroad Bill].

My Government will strengthen and renew democracy and the constitution. Legislation will be introduced to ensure the integrity of elections, protect freedom of speech and restore the balance of power between the executive, legislature and the courts [Electoral Integrity Bill, Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill, Judicial Review Bill, Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Bill]. My Ministers will promote the strength and integrity of the union. Measures will be brought forward to strengthen devolved Government in Northern Ireland and address the legacy of the past [Northern Ireland (Ministers, Elections and Petitions of Concerns) Bill, Legacy Legislation].

My Government will introduce measures to increase the safety and security of its citizens.

Legislation will increase sentences for the most serious and violent offenders and ensure the timely administration of justice [Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill]. Proposals will be brought forward to address violence, including against women and girls, and to support victims [Draft Victims Bill]. Measures will be brought forward to establish a fairer immigration system that strengthens the United Kingdom’s borders and deters criminals who facilitate dangerous and illegal journeys [New Plan for Immigration Legislation].

My Government will lead the way in ensuring internet safety for all, especially for children [Draft Online Safety Bill] whilst harnessing the benefits of a free, open and secure internet.

My Ministers will provide our gallant Armed Services with the biggest spending increase in thirty years, taking forward their programme of modernisation and reinforcing the United Kingdom’s commitment to NATO. My Ministers will honour and strengthen the Armed Forces Covenant, placing it in law [Armed Forces Bill]. Measures will be introduced to provide National Insurance contribution relief for employers of veterans [National Insurance Contributions Bill].

Legislation will be introduced to counter hostile activity by foreign states [Counter-State Threats Bill, Telecommunications (Security) Bill]. My Ministers will implement the Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy.

The United Kingdom will host the G7 Summit and lead the global effort to secure a robust economic recovery from the pandemic. My Ministers will deepen trade ties in the Gulf, Africa and the Indo-Pacific.

My Government will continue to provide aid where it has the greatest impact on reducing poverty and alleviating human suffering. My Government will uphold human rights and democracy across the world. It will take forward a global effort to get 40 million girls across the world into school.

Members of the House of Commons.

Estimates for the public services will be laid before you.

Other measures will be laid before you.

I pray that the blessing of Almighty God may rest upon your counsels.

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Inside Queen Elizabeth's Final Appearance Just Days Before Her Death

The monarch died peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday, just two days after appointing Liz Truss as the U.K.'s new prime minister

Queen Elizabeth made her final appearance just two days before her death on Thursday.

The monarch, who died "peacefully" at age 96 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, formally appointed a new prime minister on Tuesday. The new premier Liz Truss traveled to Balmoral Castle in Scotland — where the Queen traditionally spends her summers — for the meeting. The meeting marked the first time that Queen Elizabeth appointed a new prime minister in Scotland.

The Queen — who had been experiencing episodic mobility issues before death — was photographed shaking hands with Truss while holding a walking cane and her go-to black handbag .

Outgoing Prime Minister Boris Johnson also traveled to Scotland for a formal farewell from the monarch on Tuesday.

"The Right Honourable Boris Johnson MP had an Audience of The Queen this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury, which Her Majesty was graciously pleased to accept," Buckingham Palace said in a release.

For more on Queen Elizabeth, listen below to our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day.

A source previously explained that the decision was made for the audiences to take place at Balmoral to provide certainty for the new prime minister and Johnson's schedules. Amid the Queen's mobility issues, they wanted to avoid the issue of alternative arrangements at the last minute had the plan been for the monarch to travel to London or Windsor Castle.

Appointing the prime minister was one of the Queen's key duties, one she did not delegate to her son and heir Prince Charles . In recent months, Charles took on an increasing number of roles on her behalf in the months before her death.

Although she met her first prime minister, Sir Winston Churchill, when she stepped off the plane that brought her back from Kenya to Britain in 1952, all the others saw her at the palace prior to Truss, who is the 15th prime minister appointed by the Queen.

Following Tuesday's audiences, the palace announced the Queen would no longer preside over a scheduled Privy Council meeting on Wednesday so she could rest.

"After a full day yesterday, Her Majesty has this afternoon accepted doctors' advice to rest," the palace said in a statement. "This means that the Privy Council meeting that had been due to take place this evening will be rearranged.

While the Queen scaled back her commitments prior to her death, she made another public appearance to open the new 28-bed Thames Hospice building in Maidenhead in July.

Accompanied by her daughter Princess Anne, the Queen was all smiles as she met patient Pat White and chatted with staff and volunteers. She moved around with the aide of a cane, which she has been using regularly since October due to her ongoing mobility issues .

It was the Queen's fourth visit to the charity. She first opened Thames Hospice in Nov. 1987. In the last few years, it has been modernized and rebuilt on a new site following a huge $26 million fundraising effort.

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The hospice charity has been providing end-of-life and palliative care for people in the area for around 30 years for free, and the charity relies on donations for half of its $15.5 million annual running costs.

Thames Hospice Chair of Trustees Jonathan Jones said afterwards, "Today's momentous visit builds upon a long-held association between the royal family and Thames Hospice. It is a huge privilege to welcome Her Majesty to officially open our facility and show how the charity continues to flourish 35 years on from the Queen's very first visit."

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Queen Elizabeth’s last Christmas speech was deeply personal

In her 2021 speech, the queen noted that life is filled with ‘final partings as well as first meetings,’ as she reflected on losing her husband of 73 years.

Queen Elizabeth defined 'era after era after era': Royal correspondent

Newsweek chief royal correspondent Jack Royston describes the impact of Queen Elizabeth II's legacy, claiming she had a 'real art' for connecting with the public that was 'exceptionally rare.'

Queen Elizabeth II made dozens of Christmas speeches during her 70-year-reign, but her last one – made in 2021 after the death of her husband Prince Philip – was likely one of her most personal. 

The late monarch made a speech nearly every year of her reign, which were broadcast nationally on Christmas Day. 

Throughout the years, the queen used the annual tradition to talk about holiday themes like love, charity and family and to give people hope during times of war and strife. In 2020, she spoke about the coronavirus, honoring health care workers and saying people had "risen magnificently to the challenges" caused by the pandemic. 

However, last Christmas, she related her own heartbreak after losing her husband of 73 years just months before in April. 

A LOOK BACK AT QUEEN ELIZABETH II AND PRINCE PHILIP'S DECADES-LONG LOVE STORY AFTER HER DEATH AT 96

Queen Elizabeth II records her annual Christmas broadcast in the White Drawing Room in Windsor Castle, Berkshire Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021. (Victoria Jones/PA Images via Getty Images)

"Although it’s a time of great happiness and good cheer for many, Christmas can be hard for those who have lost loved ones," she began in her speech sitting next to a photo of Philip. "This year, especially, I understand why."

Because of coronavirus restrictions, the queen also sat alone at Philip's funeral after he died on April 9 at 99 years old. 

She continued, "In the months since the death of my beloved Philip, I have drawn great comfort from the warmth and affection of the many tributes to his life and work – from around the country, the Commonwealth and the world. His sense of service, intellectual curiosity and capacity to squeeze fun out of any situation – were all irrepressible. That mischievous, enquiring twinkle was as bright at the end as when I first set eyes on him."

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh wave at the crowds from the balcony at Buckingham Palace after Elizabeth's coronation, June 2, 1953. (Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

"But life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings; and as much as I and my family miss him, I know he would want us to enjoy Christmas," she said. 

QUEEN ELIZABETH II DIES AT 96: A LOOK AT HER LIFE AS BRITISH ROYALTY

She added later in her speech that even though there was "one familiar laugh missing" during the holiday season, their family would still be able to find the "joy in Christmas" through the "eyes of our young children."

She also mentioned her then-upcoming Platinum Jubilee, celebrating 70 years on the throne this year, which she said she hoped "will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness; a chance to give thanks for the enormous changes of the last seventy years - social, scientific and cultural - and also to look ahead with confidence." 

In this image, made available Nov. 18, 2007, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip re-visit Broadlands to mark their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on Nov. 20. The royals spent their wedding night at Broadlands in Hampshire in November 1947, the former home of Prince Philip's uncle, Earl Mountbatten.  (Tim Graham/Getty Images)

The queen’s Christmas broadcast has been an "intrinsic part of Christmas Day festivities for many people across the Commonwealth," according to the palace.

"Each Broadcast carefully reflects current issues and concerns, and shares The Queen's reflections on what Christmas means to her and to many of her listeners," the palace says on its website. "Over the years, the Christmas Broadcast has acted as a chronicle of global, national and personal events which have affected The Queen and her audience."

The queen delivered the first-ever televised speech in 1957, telling the nation she hoped broadcasting it would make her "Christmas message more personal and direct."

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King Charles III is expected to carry on the Christmas tradition that George V started in 1932 this season. 

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Queen's stoic final words days before her death as she dwelled on her faith and father

The Queen passed away a year ago today, and just days before her death, she seemed 'very much at peace' as she shared some stoic words about her 70 years on the throne

• 14:09, 8 Sep 2023

In June last year, we were all marking Queen Elizabeth II's 70 years on the throne with her Platinum Jubilee celebrations, and just a few months later on September 8, 2022, we learned the sad news that the 96-year-old monarch had passed away at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The celebrations cemented her as the second-longest reigning monarch in the world and had been a time of immense joy for the royal family .

When the Queen's health deteriorated in the months after her Platinum Jubilee, she was said to be "very much at peace" and had "no regrets" about the life she had lived. The Right Reverend Dr Iain Greenshields, then Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland , said she was at ease when he spoke to her, and revealed the stoic final words she said to him just days before her passing.

Dr Greenshields said the Queen spoke of her faith and her love for Balmoral, as he revealed: "It was her ­Platinum Jubilee year and so she was looking back. She had no regrets and was very much at peace. At one point she went to the window and said, 'Who would not want to be here?'. She was in a very peaceful, private place. She also mentioned her father - George VI - and the great influence his faith had on her".

Several members of the royal family have marked the first anniversary of the Queen's death today, with her son, King Charles III, sharing an emotional tribute to his mother as well as reaffirming his pledge to devote his life to service as King and thanking people across the globe for their support after he took over as monarch.

He said: "In marking the first anniversary of Her late Majesty's death and my accession, we recall with great ­affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us. I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all."

The King has remained at Balmoral in Scotland, where the Queen died, to spend time "quietly reflecting" on his loss, as well as his first 12 months as sovereign and "looking forward to the future".

The Prince and Princess of Wales also paid a personal tribute to the late Queen, writing: "Today we remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. We all miss you. W & C". It was accompanied by a photo of the late monarch surrounded by her great-grandchildren including Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis and her two youngest grandchildren.

And the Queen's right-hand woman, Angela Kelly - who was the former monarch's dresser and confidante - said she would "never forget" the Queen. She posted on Instagram : "I will never forget you. I will always love you. I miss you, my friend," and followed the words with a black heart emoji and a black and white photo of Ms Kelly with the Queen, who was smiling broadly, dressed in robes and the glittering Diamond Diadem.

Last night, Prince Harry remembered his grandmother during a moving speech at the WellChild Awards in London. Speaking to a packed room, he said: "I'll try not to get choked up this evening." He continued: "As you know, I was unable to attend the awards last as my grandmother passed away.

"As you also know, she would have been the first person to insist that I still come to be with you all instead of going to her. And that's why I know that exactly one year on she's looking down on us on all of us tonight, happy we're together and continuing to spotlight such an incredible community."

Today, the Duke of Sussex was spotted paying his respects to his grandmother alone at Windsor Castle during a swift trip to the UK. Unlike his visit last year, he won't be seeing the King or other royals, as Charles reportedly has 'no space in the diary' for his son's fleeting visit.

Queen Elizabeth II - Forever in our Hearts

In this special collector's edition of OK!, we mark the first anniversary of Her Majesty's death by celebrating her vast achievements, while looking at how the royal family have adapted to this seismic change.

Order your copy here .

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Inside the UK's state banquet hosted by King Charles in honour of Japan's Emperor Naruhito

King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako for a banquet at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday night, local time.

The event closed off the first evening of a three-day state visit celebrating diplomatic ties between the UK and Japan. 

"Our governments are working together to provide a stable world for future generations," King Charles said in a speech at the banquet. 

"Supporting all these shared endeavours are the enduring ties between our people that transcend geography — and that does not just mean how much we enjoy tea and talking about the weather."

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako were due to make the visit in 2020 but their trip was delayed due to the pandemic. 

The UK hosts state visits during the winter and early summer as a way of building relationships with other countries. 

While Charles and Camilla are the official hosts, visiting leaders tend to have engagements with government ministers and other organisations while in the country. 

In his speech, the Emperor paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth, who was monarch at the time of the initial invitation, and lauded the diplomatic ties between the nations.

"The multi-layered collaboration and exchange between our two countries is accelerating in various areas including politics and diplomacy, the economy, culture and the arts, science and technology, as well as education," he said.

"Our bilateral relations have never been more robust."

Emperor Naruhito last travelled to the UK in 2022 to attend Queen Elizabeth's funeral.

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AOC defeats moderate challenger in Democratic primary

In a closely watched primary, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-New York, has emerged victorious, securing her position as the Democratic candidate for New York’s 14th Congressional District.

The 34-year-old progressive, known as AOC, overcame a challenge from 66-year-old investment banker Marty Dolan , who positioned himself as a moderate alternative.

More: Taking on the squad: Meet the Democratic investment banker challenging Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Dolan criticized Ocasio-Cortez during the campaign for being too extreme and out of touch with her constituents. He focused on issues like the migrant crisis, bail reform, and New York City’s economic challenges. Despite his efforts, Dolan’s message did not gain enough traction. His campaign, funded largely by personal loans, couldn’t match Ocasio-Cortez’s $8 million war chest.

Ocasio-Cortez, who first shocked the political establishment in 2018 by defeating a 10-term incumbent, built a national profile through her advocacy and membership in “The Squad.” She focused on her legislative achievements and ongoing efforts to address income inequality, climate change, and social justice issues. Her refusal to debate Dolan drew some criticism but ultimately did not hurt her standing with voters.

More: Lauren Boebert runs in GOP race, Democrats clash over Israel: What to know about Tuesday's pivotal primaries

Turnout for the primary was robust, reflecting strong feelings on both sides. In many parts of the district, particularly underrepresented areas, voters supported Ocasio-Cortez’s continued advocacy.

With the primary victory secured, Ocasio-Cortez is poised to compete in the November general election, where she is heavily favored in the deeply Democratic district.

Jeremy Yurow is a politics reporting fellow based in Hawaii for the USA TODAY Network. You can reach him at [email protected] or on X, formerly Twitter @JeremyYurow

Election latest: Farage urged to 'get a grip' of Reform UK amid racism row

John Healey, the shadow defence secretary, has urged Nigel Farage to "get a grip" of Reform UK after a racism row involving the prime minister. It comes as a Reform UK canvasser who used a racial slur against Rishi Sunak called himself a "total fool" and said he has learned his lesson.

Saturday 29 June 2024 14:03, UK

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• Farage urged to 'get a grip' of Reform UK
• Reform canvasser in PM racism row says he was 'a total fool'
• Faultlines:   Eight-hour school runs and kids too hungry to sleep - the families caught up in housing 'social cleansing'
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Reform UK has withdrawn support from three of its candidates, the party has confirmed.

Nigel Farage's party is no longer backing Edward Oakenfull, Robert Lomas, and Leslie Lilley - who were all previously candidates for Reform.

Mr Oakenfull reportedly penned social media posts about the IQ of sub-Saharan Africans - which he told the BBC were "taken out of context".

Meanwhile, Mr Lomas allegedly said black people should "get off [their] lazy arses" and stop acting "like savages".

Ms Lilley is accused of describing people arriving on small boats as "scum".

The candidates will remain on the ballot paper, but are no longer endorsed by Reform UK.

The Archbishop of Canterbury urged people to avoid "personalised abuse" in the closing stages of the election campaign as he encouraged voters to go to the ballot box.

The Most Reverend Justin Welby said: "In these last few days before the election, let us pray for all candidates taking part in this most essential act of democracy.

"Let us encourage courteous and kind debate and not use personalised abuse.

"Let us carefully consider issues and the common good, and above all vote."

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told former soldiers of his plans for a veterans' bill, if the Tories are re-elected, during a campaign visit in his North Yorkshire constituency.

Mr Sunak drunk tea and munched on a cake at the Ellerton Lakeside Cafe, near Northallerton, as he chatted with about a dozen veterans who had gathered for Armed Forces Day, joking that: "You need a lot of sugar to get through my day."

Listening to the men, he said: "That's why we now have, like they do in the US, we have a dedicated office for veteran's affairs, a minister in the cabinet, funding. 

"So, we're at the start of that journey."

He said: "If we're re-elected, we're actually going to have a veteran's bill, we're going to pass our first ever veteran's bill in parliament. 

"That will bring together all the things that we need to do - put some things in law that will improve the service that we've providing. 

"That hasn't happened before - a flagship veteran's bill that (veterans' minister) Johnny Mercer's been working on which will just continue to improve the support."

Mr Sunak listened as he was told about initiatives to tackle veterans' homelessness, mental health problems and issues facing service families at the nearby Catterick Garrison.

He said: "We want to make sure all of you get the support you are entitled to."

By Ben Bloch , political reporter

Two Reform UK parliamentary candidates have shared material deemed "vile" and in breach of the internationally-recognised definition of antisemitism.

Candidates of the right-wing party have previously shared on social media material defending Adolf Hitler, denying the Holocaust, conspiracy theories about the Rothschild family and Jewish financier George Soros, denial of antisemitism, and comparisons of the state of Israel with Nazi Germany.

The uncovering of these social media posts, in a dossier compiled by the Campaign Against Antisemitism and verified by Sky News, raises yet further questions about the vetting process undertaken by  Reform UK  ahead of nominating these candidates to stand for parliament.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has threatened to take legal and police action against a vetting firm, Vetting.com, saying it was paid £144,000 to carry out candidate checks but "not a single piece of work was delivered", and alleged political bias.

Today is the final Saturday of the general election campaign, with people across the UK preparing to cast their vote on 4 July.

There's still plenty that could happen between now and Thursday - so now isn't the time to turn away.

It's 12.30pm - here's everything you need to know so far:

• Party leaders are on the election campaign trail on  Armed Forces Day;
• Rishi Sunak will later hail the "duty, dedication and selfless personal sacrifice" of servicemen and women and claim his is the only party to meet the Help for Heroes Veterans' Pledge;
• Meanwhile, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to introduce a new armed forces commissioner and lead a "government of service" if Labour is elected;
• However, there is another story holding attention today - a racism row involving a Reform UK canvasser and Rishi Sunak;
• Footage from an undercover Channel 4 reporter showed Reform campaigner Andrew Parker using a discriminatory term about the prime minister, as well as saying the army should "just shoot" migrants crossing the Channel;
• The canvasser has called himself a "total fool" and said he has learned his lesson;
• But John Healey, the shadow defence secretary, has urged Nigel Farage to "get a grip" of Reform UK after a racism row involving the prime minister.
• Sir Keir Starmer has also commented today, urging Mr Farage to "set the tone" in his party;
• And Tom Tugendhat , the security minister, has criticised those "in Nigel Farage's company" who have "rather extraordinary and unpleasant views".

Stick with us through the afternoon for the latest news and analysis from the campaign trail.

Our live poll tracker collates the results of opinion surveys carried out by all the main polling organisations - and allows you to see how the political parties are performing in the run-up to the general election.

With under a week to go, the Tories and Labour have taken a drop, while support for Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats is on the rise.

Read more about the tracker  here .

Sir Keir Starmer today refused to say whether David Lammy would be his foreign secretary under a Labour government.

Speaking to reporters, the Labour leader said he will "work hard until 10 o'clock on Thursday" to get votes, adding: "I'm not going to announce anybody who may be in a cabinet after Thursday if we win."

Asked if he was concerned about the prospect of a super-majority, Sir Keir said that "the numbers are really tight, it'll go down to a few hundred in many constituencies".

He added: "We have to win every vote, earn the trust across the country."

More from Sir Keir Starmer, who has hit out at "desperate" and "ridiculous" Conservative attempts to portray Labour as a risk to national security.

Speaking on a campaign visit, he told reporters he had been granted access to sensitive intelligence by the government so it was wrong for ministers to now claim he would be a danger.

He said: "I think this is desperate stuff from the Tories. We are the party that were the founder member of NATO. 

"If you go to Brussels and see the treaty there for NATO, it's a Labour secretary of state that signed that and our support for NATO has been unshakeable since then.

"On the nuclear deterrent, we're clear about the triple lock that we've put in place, not only the current deterrent but the future upgrades of that deterrent and the jobs that go with it.

"We have also - and this is why it is really desperate from the Tories - united with this government, the Tory government, on really important issues of national security. As a result of that, they have given me high-level sensitive briefings, so much do they trust us on national security. 

"I'm very glad that they have and I do thank the defence secretary for facilitating that, particularly during Ukraine when they gave us very regular, very sensitive briefings.

"To now turn around and make this ridiculous claim just shows how desperate they have become going into this election. It does them no good."

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has urged Nigel Farage to "set the tone" in his party after a racism row involving Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Speaking to Sky News at Aldershot Football Club in Hampshire, Sir Keir was asked what he believes attracts people to joining a party like Reform UK.

He said: "Leadership accepts the culture and the tone of an organisation, in this case a political party.

"It's no good Nigel Farage after the event saying that he doesn't agree with certain comments. 

"You set the culture, you set the tone. That's what leadership is about. 

"And that's why I set about changing the Labour Party four and a half years ago. And that took an act of leadership, steely determination, so that we could ensure the Labour Party going into this election is a changed Labour Party."

Sir Keir went on to insist that Mr Farage is "not a spectator" - but is the leader of Reform UK: "Leaders have to set the tone."

He added: "Leaders have to set the tone, set the standards and take the action so that people know in advance what is acceptable and what's not acceptable. 

"I think that's a very important part of leadership."

Pledges and promises are coming thick and fast from every party as the general election approaches. 

Struggling to keep up with who is saying what?

Here is a summary of where the main parties stand on major issues.

For a more in-depth look at what each party has pledged, scour our  manifesto checker ...

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