We recognise that many people will travel to Buckingham Palace and other Royal Residences as a mark of their respect. We expect large crowds, which can pose risks to public safety. Those who do travel are asked to follow any instructions given to them by stewards and the police.

We expect significant crowding and delays on some public transport. The public should check ahead and plan accordingly.

As you would expect a number of organisations will now be making practical preparations including contingency planning for the State Funeral and related events. Access to some areas, especially in central London, will be restricted, with road closures and diversions that will cause delays to vehicles and pedestrians.

Those who wish to lay floral tributes near Royal Residences in London, Windsor, Edinburgh, Balmoral and Sandringham are asked to do so only in designated areas, as directed by stewards. Further details will be made available shortly.

Minister of State at the Northern Ireland Office, Steve Baker MP, has issued the below statement in response to the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II:

Following the sad news today of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, I would like to echo the words of the Secretary of State and other members of Cabinet.

Her Majesty was unwavering in her dedication, selflessness and duty to the people of the UK and wider Commonwealth nations during her reign.

This was particularly true for the people of Northern Ireland and her efforts to build reconciliation and a better future here.

My thoughts today will be with The King and the entire Royal Family and I offer them my sincere condolences.

On hearing of Her Majesty’s passing, Chief Constable Simon Chesterman OBE, QPM said: “It is with great sadness that we learnt of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II today. On behalf of everyone at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, I send our deepest condolences to The Royal Family at this very sad time.

“As Crown Servants, it is a particularly poignant moment for the policing family to hear of her passing. During her unprecedented reign of 70 years, Queen Elizabeth II has been a source of inspiration to millions globally.

“Flags at CNC premises will now be flown at half-mast to mark the national period of mourning.”

A book of condolence will be available for anyone who would like to pass on their messages to the Royal Family on their website

The Rt Hon Chris Heaton-Harris MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, has issued the following statement in response to the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II:

I am deeply saddened at the news of the loss of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

Throughout her reign, Her Majesty has been the matriarch and pillar of our country and the Commonwealth. She has always provided wise counsel, admirably and selflessly, fulfilling a lifetime commitment to public service.

Her Majesty dedicated herself to our family of nations, no more so was this apparent than in Northern Ireland, We will always be greatly indebted for her efforts to promote reconciliation and the fostering of better community relations, ensuring peace and stability.

I want to offer my sincere condolences to The King and the entire Royal Family on their loss. The thoughts of the people of Northern Ireland, like the rest of the United Kingdom and around the world, are with them at this time.