Prince Philip: PM Will Not Attend Funeral Because Of COVID Restrictions

The Prime Minister will not attend the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral to allow for the attendance of as many family members as possible as coronavirus restrictions continue to be enforced, Number 10 has said.

Boris Johnson was understood to have been expected to attend the ceremony by the Royal Family, but he offered to step aside as the number of guests allowed at funerals is currently limited to 30.

A Downing Street spokesperson said: "As a result of the coronavirus regulations, only 30 people can attend the funeral of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"The Prime Minister has throughout wanted to act in accordance with what is best for the Royal Household, and so to allow for as many family members as possible, will not be attending the funeral on Saturday."

Prince Philip’s funeral will take place at Windsor Castle on 17 April, but the public has been told to stay away because of the pandemic.

The Duke's children, grandchildren and other close family are expected to be among the 30 attending.

The proceedings will take place entirely within the grounds of Windsor Castle and a national minute of silence will be held at 15:00.

Cover image: Crown Copyright.