POLITICAL parties across Worcestershire have paused canvassing today in respect to The Duke of Edinburgh who died aged 99 this morning.
Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat groups made the announcement after the Palace released a statement this afternoon.
The news was announced in a statement from the Palace which read: βIt is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.β
Political parties are gearing up for the Worcestershire County Council elections on May 6.
Coun Karen May, leader of the Conservative Group at Bromsgrove District Council, said: “With the sad news of the passing of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, we have suspended all political campaigning until further notice to allow us all to reflect and pay our respects to a remarkable individual who has served his country selflessly for many years.
“Our thoughts are with The Queen and her family at this time.”
Peter McDonald, who represents Labour on Bromsgrove District and Worcestershire County councils and is standing in the election, said: “It’s a sad day for everyone staunchly loyal to the royal family and it is right that we stop campaigning at this time.
“That will allow us all to pause for reflection.”
Josh Robinson, chair of the Bromsgrove Liberal Democrats, said: “The Bromsgrove Lib Dems instantly suspended all campaigning for the day as soon as the news about Prince Phillip was announced.
“Our thoughts are with the Queen and her family today, Prince Philip leaves a lasting legacy to the UK and we should all be grateful for his service to our country.”
Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid tweeted earlier: “HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh devoted his life to serving the U.K. and Commonwealth.
“He made me so incredibly proud to be British. May he rest in peace.
“My thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and Royal Family.”
As a mark of respect at this very sad time, flags are being flown at half mast at County Hall and other public buildings across the county.
Due to current COVID-19 regulations, an online book of condolence will be opened for Worcestershire residents in due course.β
Worcestershire welcomed Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh in 2012 at the opening of the Hive in Worcester.
As well as opening the landmark building in the heart of Worcester, a reception was held at the Guildhall for civic heads and charity chiefs from across the region.
After the reception, Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh engaged in their traditional walkabout on the High Street speaking to hundreds of delighted members of the crowd.
