Queen Elizabeth's funeral was supposed to be a solemn occasion but it didn't grip everybody in reverential silence. Some netizens couldn't stop themselves from injecting humour into the ceremony. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Queen Elizabeth's funeral sparks meme-fest online

Queen Elizabeth made her final voyage to her resting place alongside Prince Philip at Windsor in private family burial. World leaders, including US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, were present at the service.

Queen Elizabeth II laid to rest alongside Prince Philip at Windsor

Queen Elizabeth II laid to rest alongside Prince Philip at Windsor in private family burial

Queen Elizabeth's demise led to emotional outpouring for some, for some others it was a hark back to the colonial times when Britain ruled half the world. To be fair, Queen Elizabeth took the throne when many of the 'crown jewel' colonies had shrugged off British rule. But the sheer epochal value of news of Queen's demise made many connect her identity to colonial Britain, which for many, was a monster spreading its tentacles around the world.

Some tentacles prevailed however, not figuratively but very literally. As the world looked at the majestic British crown kept on the Queen coffin on the day of her funeral, a spider appeared to crawl happily next to the very headgear worn by once most powerful people on Earth.&nbsp;

The spider did not ascend the crown. However, its spider-sense tingled enough to make it crawl across note from King Charles to his mother. The note was kept on top of the coffin just beside the crown.

The Queen's coffin was in Westminster Abbey when the spider was spotted. It is not known whether there was anyone on standby to shoo random critters away from Her Majesty's coffin. Was that why nobody dutifully raced ahead to remove the arachnid? We'd never know.

The appearance of the spider was surely a tongue-in-cheek moment in a solemn ceremony which was scripted, practiced well to the very last detail.&nbsp;

Perhaps thousand-year-old Westminster Abbey needed a little more vacuuming!

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Queen Elizabeth's demise led to emotional outpouring for some, for some others it was a hark back to the colonial times when Britain ruled half the world. To be fair, Queen Elizabeth took the throne when many of the 'crown jewel' colonies had shrugged off British rule.

Queen Elizabeth's demise led to emotional outpouring for some, for some others it was a hark back to the colonial times when Britain ruled half the world. To be fair, Queen Elizabeth took the throne when many of the 'crown jewel' colonies had shrugged off British rule. But the sheer epochal value of news of Queen's demise made many connect her identity to colonial Britain, which for many, was a monster spreading its tentacles around the world. Some tentacles prevailed however, not figuratively but very literally. As the world looked at the majestic British crown kept on the Queen coffin on the day of her funeral, a spider appeared to crawl happily next to the very headgear worn by once most powerful people on Earth. The spider did not ascend the crown. However, its spider-sense tingled enough to make it crawl across note from King Charles to his mother. The note was kept on top of the coffin just beside the crown. The Queen's coffin was in Westminster Abbey when the spider was spotted. It is not known whether there was anyone on standby to shoo random critters away from Her Majesty's coffin. Was that why nobody dutifully raced ahead to remove the arachnid? We'd never know. The appearance of the spider was surely a tongue-in-cheek moment in a solemn ceremony which was scripted, practiced well to the very last detail. Perhaps thousand-year-old Westminster Abbey needed a little more vacuuming! You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Along came a spider, on Queen Elizabeth's coffin, right during the funeral!

In pics| From 'special' music to royal burial: Queen Elizabeth II’s State funeral explained

Queen Elizabeth II's last journey is nearing its end. The coffin is now being driven to Windsor. The State House is marching between two of London's Royal Parts on its route to Wellington Arch. It includes the Canada Memorial which was unveiled by the Queen in 1994.

Queen Elizabeth II Final Farewell: Royal family to gather for a private burial service

WION Dispatch | Queen Elizabeth II Funeral: Final journey through London on to Windsor castle

Queen Elizabeth's coffin made its final journey to Windsor. Her coffin was lowered into the royal vault at Windsor castle. She is laid to rest alongside her husband, Prince Philip.

Queen Elizabeth's coffin made its final journey to Windsor

World leaders have gathered in London for Queen Elizabeth's funeral. Her coffin has been lying in state in London's historic Westminster Hall since Wednesday evening. WION tells you who will be attending the event and who will not.

Queen Elizabeth Funeral: Who will be attending the event and who will not

World leaders have gathered in London for Queen Elizabeth's funeral. Her coffin has been lying in state in London's historic Westminster Hall since Wednesday evening.

Queen Elizabeth Funeral: World leaders gather in London for the grand state funeral

The lying-in-state ceremony for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Hall formally ended and the doors closed to the public ahead of her state funeral on Monday.

Queen Elizabeth Funeral: Queen's lying-in-state ends ahead of funeral

Football legend and former England Captain David Beckham queued alongside thousands of other mourners to see Queen Elizabeth lying in state for more than 13 hours.

Queen Elizabeth demise: David Beckham queues for more than 13 hours alongside other mourners

As the Queen lies in state in London's Westminster Hall, thousands of people have been lining up along the River Thames to view her casket.

Thousands of people have been waiting in lines since Wednesday morning, and hundreds of thousands are expected to pay their respects before her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-police-officers-stabbed-in-london-ahead-of-queens-funeral-516750">funeral </a>on Monday.

Around five miles of mourners waiting to see the casket have formed a queue that extends from Westminster, along the river to Southwark Park, and across Lambeth Bridge. Some people have waited in line in all weather conditions for hours, even overnight, in order to pay their respects, as reported by the BBC.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Westminster Hall welcomed guests after a stately procession carried the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medias-interest-in-covering-queen-elizabeth-iis-news-leading-to-infobesity-516530">Queen's </a>casket from Buckingham Palace.

The lying-in-state will continue on Monday, the day of the state funeral, until 06:00 BST. The administration has issued warnings that there may be 30-hour wait times to enter.

They will pass the closed coffin of the Queen, which is housed beneath the ancient timber roof of the hall from the 11th century on a raised platform called a catafalque.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-fumes-as-it-is-not-invited-for-queen-elizabeths-funeral-516604">Russia fumes as it is not invited for Queen Elizabeth's funeral</a>

Soldiers from the Royal Household's service units are keeping a constant vigil at each corner of the platform.

The Imperial State Crown, a garland of white roses and dahlias, as well as the Sovereign's orb and sceptre are placed on the coffin, which is covered in the Royal Standard.

The Queen's coffin&nbsp;

The coffin is draped in the Royal Standard&nbsp;and the Imperial State Crown rest on top.&nbsp;

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Slow journey to Westminster Hall

The Palace of Westminster, the centre of British administration, houses its oldest section, known as the grand hall.

More than 200,000 people lined up to see the coffin of the Queen Mother, the last member of the Royal Family to lie in state in the hall, in 2002.

The streets between Buckingham Palace and Westminster were crowded with mourners on Wednesday as the coffin was slowly carried to the hall during a formal procession.

The coffin travelled through the centre of the capital atop an open gun carriage pulled by seven black horses from the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery in the bright sunshine that followed the rain.

Capt. Amy Cooper was riding Lord Firebrand, a massive veteran horse that stood 18 hands tall (183 cm) and set the pace for the procession.

Procession carrying the coffin

The gun carriage, sometimes referred to as the George Gun Carriage, was used to transport the body of King George VI in 1952 and for the Queen Mother's funeral in 2002.

The Scots Guards and the Grenadier Guards performed funeral marches as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-countries-not-invited-for-queen-elizabeth-iis-funeral-see-complete-list-516447">procession</a> started off at a stately 75 steps per minute, a speed usually reserved for such solemn occasions.

Along with his siblings and sons Prince William in his Royal Air Force uniform and Prince Harry in a morning suit, King Charles III followed the coffin on foot while wearing his full ceremonial attire and carrying his field marshal baton.

According to royal writer Sean Coughlan, seeing the brothers marching behind the coffin together brought back painful memories of their mother Diana's funeral 25 years prior.

The activities related to the parade involved up to 1,000 active-duty military personnel dressed in ceremonial attire.

The Household Cavalry, the Grenadier, and the Scots Guards led the march ahead of the mounted Metropolitan Police. Members of the Royal Household, individuals who worked closely with the Queen, followed them as they approached the casket bearing the body of the monarch.

Members of the King's former family, when he was known as the Prince of Wales, followed the King and other royals behind the coffin and formed the back of the parade.

The Countess of Wessex, the Duchess of Sussex, the Princess of Wales, the Queen Consort, and Camilla travelled&nbsp;to the hall by car.&nbsp;

Throughout the procession, shots were fired from Hyde Park every minute. Additionally, Big Ben chimed.

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As the Queen lies in state in London's Westminster Hall, thousands of people have been lining up along the River Thames to view her casket. Thousands of people have been waiting in lines since Wednesday morning, and hundreds of thousands are expected to pay their respects before her funeral on Monday.

As the Queen lies in state in London's Westminster Hall, thousands of people have been lining up along the River Thames to view her casket. Thousands of people have been waiting in lines since Wednesday morning, and hundreds of thousands are expected to pay their respects before her funeral on Monday. Around five miles of mourners waiting to see the casket have formed a queue that extends from Westminster, along the river to Southwark Park, and across Lambeth Bridge. Some people have waited in line in all weather conditions for hours, even overnight, in order to pay their respects, as reported by the BBC. On Wednesday, Westminster Hall welcomed guests after a stately procession carried the Queen's casket from Buckingham Palace. The lying-in-state will continue on Monday, the day of the state funeral, until 06:00 BST. The administration has issued warnings that there may be 30-hour wait times to enter. They will pass the closed coffin of the Queen, which is housed beneath the ancient timber roof of the hall from the 11th century on a raised platform called a catafalque. Also read | Russia fumes as it is not invited for Queen Elizabeth's funeral Soldiers from the Royal Household's service units are keeping a constant vigil at each corner of the platform. The Imperial State Crown, a garland of white roses and dahlias, as well as the Sovereign's orb and sceptre are placed on the coffin, which is covered in the Royal Standard. The Queen's coffin The coffin is draped in the Royal Standard and the Imperial State Crown rest on top. Slow journey to Westminster Hall The Palace of Westminster, the centre of British administration, houses its oldest section, known as the grand hall. More than 200,000 people lined up to see the coffin of the Queen Mother, the last member of the Royal Family to lie in state in the hall, in 2002. The streets between Buckingham Palace and Westminster were crowded with mourners on Wednesday as the coffin was slowly carried to the hall during a formal procession. The coffin travelled through the centre of the capital atop an open gun carriage pulled by seven black horses from the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery in the bright sunshine that followed the rain. Capt. Amy Cooper was riding Lord Firebrand, a massive veteran horse that stood 18 hands tall (183 cm) and set the pace for the procession. Procession carrying the coffin The gun carriage, sometimes referred to as the George Gun Carriage, was used to transport the body of King George VI in 1952 and for the Queen Mother's funeral in 2002. The Scots Guards and the Grenadier Guards performed funeral marches as the procession started off at a stately 75 steps per minute, a speed usually reserved for such solemn occasions. Along with his siblings and sons Prince William in his Royal Air Force uniform and Prince Harry in a morning suit, King Charles III followed the coffin on foot while wearing his full ceremonial attire and carrying his field marshal baton. According to royal writer Sean Coughlan, seeing the brothers marching behind the coffin together brought back painful memories of their mother Diana's funeral 25 years prior. The activities related to the parade involved up to 1,000 active-duty military personnel dressed in ceremonial attire. The Household Cavalry, the Grenadier, and the Scots Guards led the march ahead of the mounted Metropolitan Police. Members of the Royal Household, individuals who worked closely with the Queen, followed them as they approached the casket bearing the body of the monarch. Members of the King's former family, when he was known as the Prince of Wales, followed the King and other royals behind the coffin and formed the back of the parade. The Countess of Wessex, the Duchess of Sussex, the Princess of Wales, the Queen Consort, and Camilla travelled to the hall by car. Throughout the procession, shots were fired from Hyde Park every minute. Additionally, Big Ben chimed. WATCH WION live here:

Infographic: The ceremony and symbolism of the Queen's lying-in-state explained

Queen Elizabeth II's funeral is due on September 19 at Westminster Abbey. Many heads of state from different countries are going to mark their presence. However, according to a media report, there are a few countries that have not been invited. Watch the video to find out their names.

Which countries are not invited to Queen Elizabeth II's funeral?

The Chinese foreign ministry on Wednesday said that Beijing is “actively considering” sending a high-level delegation to the funeral of UK’s Queen Elizabeth II next Monday.

Briefing reporters, Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for the ministry, said that Beijing will release further details at an appropriate time, South China Morning Post reported.

Many world leaders, including from the Commonwealth nations, have confirmed their presence at the funeral. US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will also make the trip.

Among the few leaders who did not receive an invitation to attend the funeral are Russian President Vladimir Putin, due to the Ukrainian invasion, and leaders of Belarus and Myanmar, the Press Association news agency reported quoting government sources.

Moscow had confirmed Putin’s absence at the funeral while the Myanmar government has been sanctioned by UK over last year’s coup.

Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences over&nbsp;the Queen’s death.

According to state media, Xi noted that the Queen was the first British monarch to visit China and “won wide acclaim” during her reign.

“Her death is a great loss to the British people,” he added.

The relations between UK and China have strained lately, especially after Britain joined the US and Australia in the Aukus deal, helping Canberra to acquire nuclear-powered submarines to counter China’s military presence in the Pacific, and also over growing concerns about China’s actions on Taiwan Strait.

The ascension of Liz Truss as the UK’s new&nbsp;prime minister was intensely watched by China as she is known to have a hawkish stance against the Chinese leadership.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Chinese foreign ministry on Wednesday said that Beijing is “actively considering” sending a high-level delegation to the funeral of UK’s Queen Elizabeth II next Monday.

The Chinese foreign ministry on Wednesday said that Beijing is “actively considering” sending a high-level delegation to the funeral of UK’s Queen Elizabeth II next Monday. Briefing reporters, Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for the ministry, said that Beijing will release further details at an appropriate time, South China Morning Post reported. Many world leaders, including from the Commonwealth nations, have confirmed their presence at the funeral. US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will also make the trip. Among the few leaders who did not receive an invitation to attend the funeral are Russian President Vladimir Putin, due to the Ukrainian invasion, and leaders of Belarus and Myanmar, the Press Association news agency reported quoting government sources. Moscow had confirmed Putin’s absence at the funeral while the Myanmar government has been sanctioned by UK over last year’s coup. Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences over the Queen’s death. According to state media, Xi noted that the Queen was the first British monarch to visit China and “won wide acclaim” during her reign. “Her death is a great loss to the British people,” he added. The relations between UK and China have strained lately, especially after Britain joined the US and Australia in the Aukus deal, helping Canberra to acquire nuclear-powered submarines to counter China’s military presence in the Pacific, and also over growing concerns about China’s actions on Taiwan Strait. The ascension of Liz Truss as the UK’s new prime minister was intensely watched by China as she is known to have a hawkish stance against the Chinese leadership. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China ‘considering’ sending delegation for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral

The aircraft bringing the late monarch's body from Edinburgh to London on Tuesday (September 13) was the most watched flight in history with little over five million viewers.

4.79 million people saw the flight live online in total, and an additional 25,000 people watched it on Flightradar24's Youtube channel, according to the flight tracking website.

The platform's stability was reportedly affected by an unprecedented six million follow-the-flight attempts within the first minute of the Boeing C17A Globemaster turning on its transponder at Edinburgh's airport, according to the business.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-govt-may-replace-queen-elizabeth-iis-image-on-their-currency-with-local-figures-515852">Australia: Govt may replace Queen Elizabeth II's image on their currency with local figures</a>

“Seventy years after her first flight as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meghan-puts-her-podcast-archetypes-on-hold-during-queen-elizabeth-iis-mourning-period-515605">Queen</a> aboard the BOAC Argonaut ‘Atalanta,’ Queen Elizabeth II’s final flight is the most tracked flight in Flightradar24 history,” Flightradar24 Director of Communications said.

On September 8, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-majestic-singapore-orchid-named-in-honour-of-queen-elizabeth-515735">Elizabeth</a>, the monarch with the longest reign in Britain, passed away in Balmoral, Scotland.

The burial will take place on September 19.

According to Flightradar24, the flight exceeded the previous record of 2.2 million set by US&nbsp;In August, Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the House, travelled by plane to Taiwan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The aircraft bringing the late monarch's body from Edinburgh to London on Tuesday (September 13) was the most watched flight in history with little over five million viewers.

The aircraft bringing the late monarch's body from Edinburgh to London on Tuesday (September 13) was the most watched flight in history with little over five million viewers. 4.79 million people saw the flight live online in total, and an additional 25,000 people watched it on Flightradar24's Youtube channel, according to the flight tracking website. The platform's stability was reportedly affected by an unprecedented six million follow-the-flight attempts within the first minute of the Boeing C17A Globemaster turning on its transponder at Edinburgh's airport, according to the business. Also read | Australia: Govt may replace Queen Elizabeth II's image on their currency with local figures “Seventy years after her first flight as Queen aboard the BOAC Argonaut ‘Atalanta,’ Queen Elizabeth II’s final flight is the most tracked flight in Flightradar24 history,” Flightradar24 Director of Communications said. On September 8, Elizabeth, the monarch with the longest reign in Britain, passed away in Balmoral, Scotland. The burial will take place on September 19. According to Flightradar24, the flight exceeded the previous record of 2.2 million set by US In August, Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the House, travelled by plane to Taiwan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Queen Elizabeth II's final flight is the most tracked in history

Foreign heads of state attending the Queen's funeral must use a group bus to Westminster Abbey rather than driving privately, as per&nbsp;recently released official instructions.

The documents, which were seen by the Guardian, lay out tight guidelines for the dozens of presidents, kings, queens, and prime leaders from other countries who are anticipated to attend the funeral. They advise them to take commercial planes rather than clogging up London's airports.&nbsp;

The instructions reveal the practical difficulty of hosting the large number of foreign dignitaries who will be coming to London next weekend. This will present a problem for Joe Biden, who will probably need a lot more security. The funeral will be attended in person by the US president.

The instructions, which were first published by Politico, specify that foreign visitors should minimise the size of their delegations as much as possible and that invitations to funerals should preferably only be sent to the head of state and their spouse, without any members of their family or staff.&nbsp;

The government expressed sadness that "because of limited space at the state funeral service and associated events, no other members of the principal guest’s family, staff or entourage may be admitted."&nbsp;

The guidance adds: “The royal funeral unit would therefore be grateful if accompanying delegations can be kept as small as possible. This will also reduce disruption and transit time at airports. Where possible, overseas representatives should plan to arrive in the UK at least one day before the state funeral or the first event, which they are attending.”

Additionally, it states that heads of state should use other London airports if they are unable to fly commercially and that Heathrow will not be open for private flight arrangements or aircraft parking. Because of the enormous number of visitors, the government will reportedly refuse to use helicopter transportation.&nbsp;

Foreign leaders are also cautioned in the advisory that "it will not be possible to display flags at any airport for arrival or departure."

The sheer number of private automobiles belonging to international leaders planning to attend the funeral is too much for London's streets to handle. The government will instead transport them to a different location in London where it will "provide coach transport from a central assembly point … Because of traffic restrictions, it will not be possible for guests to travel to such events in their own vehicles."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/juxtapose-dramatic-expansion-of-bahrain-by-building-land-on-sea-1987-vs-2022-515720">Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022</a>

Visiting leaders can record brief statements when they sign condolence cards, but there won't be any "Autocue or makeup facilities," according to the instructions.&nbsp;

After the state funeral, James Cleverly, the foreign secretary, will throw a reception near Westminster Abbey for all the foreign guests in attendance.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Foreign heads of state attending the Queen's funeral must use a group bus to Westminster Abbey rather than driving privately, as per recently released official instructions.

Foreign heads of state attending the Queen's funeral must use a group bus to Westminster Abbey rather than driving privately, as per recently released official instructions. The documents, which were seen by the Guardian, lay out tight guidelines for the dozens of presidents, kings, queens, and prime leaders from other countries who are anticipated to attend the funeral. They advise them to take commercial planes rather than clogging up London's airports. The instructions reveal the practical difficulty of hosting the large number of foreign dignitaries who will be coming to London next weekend. This will present a problem for Joe Biden, who will probably need a lot more security. The funeral will be attended in person by the US president. The instructions, which were first published by Politico, specify that foreign visitors should minimise the size of their delegations as much as possible and that invitations to funerals should preferably only be sent to the head of state and their spouse, without any members of their family or staff. The government expressed sadness that "because of limited space at the state funeral service and associated events, no other members of the principal guest’s family, staff or entourage may be admitted." The guidance adds: “The royal funeral unit would therefore be grateful if accompanying delegations can be kept as small as possible. This will also reduce disruption and transit time at airports. Where possible, overseas representatives should plan to arrive in the UK at least one day before the state funeral or the first event, which they are attending.” Additionally, it states that heads of state should use other London airports if they are unable to fly commercially and that Heathrow will not be open for private flight arrangements or aircraft parking. Because of the enormous number of visitors, the government will reportedly refuse to use helicopter transportation. Foreign leaders are also cautioned in the advisory that "it will not be possible to display flags at any airport for arrival or departure." The sheer number of private automobiles belonging to international leaders planning to attend the funeral is too much for London's streets to handle. The government will instead transport them to a different location in London where it will "provide coach transport from a central assembly point … Because of traffic restrictions, it will not be possible for guests to travel to such events in their own vehicles." Also Read: Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022 Visiting leaders can record brief statements when they sign condolence cards, but there won't be any "Autocue or makeup facilities," according to the instructions. After the state funeral, James Cleverly, the foreign secretary, will throw a reception near Westminster Abbey for all the foreign guests in attendance. (with inputs from agencies)

Foreign dignitaries attending Queen’s funeral must travel by commercial flights

President Joe Biden said has confirmed that he will attend Queen Elizabeth II's funeral.

"Yes," Biden told reporters when asked whether he had plans to&nbsp;attend the funeral, details of which have not been announced by Buckingham Palace.

"I don't know what the details are yet but I will be going," Biden said.

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</ul>

He told reporters he'd not yet spoken to King Charles III following the Queen's death.

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</ul>

"I know him. I haven't spoken to him. I did not call him yet," Biden said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-what-lies-ahead-for-king-charles-iii-after-of-queen-elizabeth-iis-death-514402?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Explainer: What lies ahead for King Charles III after Queen Elizabeth II's death</a>

Initial preparations are being made by White House staff for Biden's trip to London to attend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/queens-death-marks-end-of-an-era-life-and-time-of-queen-elizabeth-ii-in-pictures-514250?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Queen Elizabeth II</a>'s burial, as&nbsp;reported by CNN&nbsp;earlier on Friday. According to those familiar with the situation, they only intended to make an announcement on his attendance after the palace discloses the plans.

A formal delegation will&nbsp;accompany the President. The Queen was hailed by Biden as a "wonderful lady" who "shaped an era" on Thursday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/operation-london-bridge-from-queen-elizabeth-iis-funeral-to-new-king-what-happens-now-514326?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Operation London Bridge: From Queen Elizabeth II's funeral to new King's accession, what happens now?</a>

The American flags at the White House, other federal buildings, military bases, and foreign embassies were held at half-staff on Friday after Biden gave the order to do so "until the day of internment."

The President and First Lady Jill Biden jointly delivered a statement in which they praised the Queen as "a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her."

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President Joe Biden said has confirmed that he will attend Queen Elizabeth II's funeral. "Yes," Biden told reporters when asked whether he had plans to attend the funeral, details of which have not been announced by Buckingham Palace.

President Joe Biden said has confirmed that he will attend Queen Elizabeth II's funeral. "Yes," Biden told reporters when asked whether he had plans to attend the funeral, details of which have not been announced by Buckingham Palace. "I don't know what the details are yet but I will be going," Biden said. He told reporters he'd not yet spoken to King Charles III following the Queen's death. "I know him. I haven't spoken to him. I did not call him yet," Biden said. Also read | Explainer: What lies ahead for King Charles III after Queen Elizabeth II's death Initial preparations are being made by White House staff for Biden's trip to London to attend Queen Elizabeth II's burial, as reported by CNN earlier on Friday. According to those familiar with the situation, they only intended to make an announcement on his attendance after the palace discloses the plans. A formal delegation will accompany the President. The Queen was hailed by Biden as a "wonderful lady" who "shaped an era" on Thursday. Also read | Operation London Bridge: From Queen Elizabeth II's funeral to new King's accession, what happens now? The American flags at the White House, other federal buildings, military bases, and foreign embassies were held at half-staff on Friday after Biden gave the order to do so "until the day of internment." The President and First Lady Jill Biden jointly delivered a statement in which they praised the Queen as "a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her." WATCH WION live here:

US President Biden to attend Queen Elizabeth II's funeral

A period of national mourning has begun in Britain and is set to last until the funeral, which is expected to take place 10 days after the Queen's death.

Queen Elizabeth II passes away: 10 days of national mourning period kicks off in UK

The upcoming state funeral for Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sparked major controversy as the current government is set to spend nearly 1.7 billion yen ($12 million), which has caused a public uproar in the form of petitions, protests, and court orders. The former PM was assassinated during a campaign speech, earlier this year, in July.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno announced the estimate of the memorial service scheduled for September 27, which includes the security and reception costs. This was following the announcement of the previous estimate of over 200 million yen, which did not include the aforementioned costs for foreign leaders and dignitaries. The announcement was also a backtrack from the government’s previous statement which indicated that the overall cost would not be revealed until after the state funeral.&nbsp;

While there is no clarity on the details of the service, the organizers have reportedly indicated that at least 6,000 guests are expected to attend the service to be held in Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan hall. Approximately 50 of the 190 overseas delegations are “heads of state-level”, said Matsuno. This may include leaders like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US Vice President Kamala Harris, and former US President Barack Obama.&nbsp;

According to Matsuno, the policing of the event will cost nearly 800 million yen. Furthermore, hosting foreign delegations will add 600 million yen to the bill. In response to a question speculating the cost of the service to be over 1.7 billion yen, the chief cabinet secretary said, “If we were to give a simplified estimate, it would be close to what you said.” This figure has been compared to the last state funeral held for former premier Shigeru Yoshida, in 1967, which cost approximately 18 million yen. In today’s time, it would be close to 70 million.&nbsp;

The service has threatened the incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is facing a backlash as many in the country have argued that these funds could be allocated elsewhere given the current government’s heavy debt. However, Kishida defended his decision of holding a state funeral for Abe, at a press conference last week, saying that the service would “show our determination not to bend to violence and to firmly uphold democracy.”&nbsp;

The public opposition has also intensified over the alleged ties between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) MPs and the controversial South Korean-based Unification Church known for mass weddings, aggressive fundraising practices, and problematic recruiting.&nbsp;

On July 8, Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving prime minister of Japan was assassinated and his suspected killer Tetsuya Yamagami told prosecutors that he held a grudge against the church, which led him to seek revenge against its senior members. However, he instead killed Abe, whom he had seen in several videos released by the organization.&nbsp;

Yamagami claimed that his mother was a member of the church and donated all the family’s money and savings which in turn led him and his siblings to endure extreme poverty. Notably, last year, the former PM appeared in a video reportedly congratulating a group, which is said to be affiliated with the church, praising their commitment to upholding traditional family values.&nbsp;

In light of the scandal, Kishida addressed last week the public acknowledging that the Unification Church controversy has caused the public confidence in politics to dwindle, and said that he would demand that his party members sever ties with the organization. Meanwhile, members of his cabinet have reportedly agreed to review and cut ties with the organization. Kishida also issued an apology following media reports which exposed the extensive ties between the LDP and the church, saying, “As president of the LDP, I honestly express my apology.”&nbsp;

A recent poll by a Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun indicated that at least 56% of the respondents opposed the state funeral, while 38% were in support. Additionally, last month at least four protests were held against the service, one of which was outside the parliament, which according to local media saw the participation of approximately 4,000 people. On the other hand, this month civic groups also presented online petitions, signed by 280,000 people, calling for the memorial service to be canceled, according to NHK.

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The upcoming state funeral for Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sparked major controversy as the current government is set to spend nearly 1.7 billion yen ($12 million), which has caused a public uproar in the form of petitions, protests, and court orders.

The upcoming state funeral for Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sparked major controversy as the current government is set to spend nearly 1.7 billion yen ($12 million), which has caused a public uproar in the form of petitions, protests, and court orders. The former PM was assassinated during a campaign speech, earlier this year, in July. On Tuesday, chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno announced the estimate of the memorial service scheduled for September 27, which includes the security and reception costs. This was following the announcement of the previous estimate of over 200 million yen, which did not include the aforementioned costs for foreign leaders and dignitaries. The announcement was also a backtrack from the government’s previous statement which indicated that the overall cost would not be revealed until after the state funeral. While there is no clarity on the details of the service, the organizers have reportedly indicated that at least 6,000 guests are expected to attend the service to be held in Tokyo’s Nippon Budokan hall. Approximately 50 of the 190 overseas delegations are “heads of state-level”, said Matsuno. This may include leaders like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US Vice President Kamala Harris, and former US President Barack Obama. According to Matsuno, the policing of the event will cost nearly 800 million yen. Furthermore, hosting foreign delegations will add 600 million yen to the bill. In response to a question speculating the cost of the service to be over 1.7 billion yen, the chief cabinet secretary said, “If we were to give a simplified estimate, it would be close to what you said.” This figure has been compared to the last state funeral held for former premier Shigeru Yoshida, in 1967, which cost approximately 18 million yen. In today’s time, it would be close to 70 million. The service has threatened the incumbent Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who is facing a backlash as many in the country have argued that these funds could be allocated elsewhere given the current government’s heavy debt. However, Kishida defended his decision of holding a state funeral for Abe, at a press conference last week, saying that the service would “show our determination not to bend to violence and to firmly uphold democracy.” The public opposition has also intensified over the alleged ties between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) MPs and the controversial South Korean-based Unification Church known for mass weddings, aggressive fundraising practices, and problematic recruiting. On July 8, Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving prime minister of Japan was assassinated and his suspected killer Tetsuya Yamagami told prosecutors that he held a grudge against the church, which led him to seek revenge against its senior members. However, he instead killed Abe, whom he had seen in several videos released by the organization. Yamagami claimed that his mother was a member of the church and donated all the family’s money and savings which in turn led him and his siblings to endure extreme poverty. Notably, last year, the former PM appeared in a video reportedly congratulating a group, which is said to be affiliated with the church, praising their commitment to upholding traditional family values. In light of the scandal, Kishida addressed last week the public acknowledging that the Unification Church controversy has caused the public confidence in politics to dwindle, and said that he would demand that his party members sever ties with the organization. Meanwhile, members of his cabinet have reportedly agreed to review and cut ties with the organization. Kishida also issued an apology following media reports which exposed the extensive ties between the LDP and the church, saying, “As president of the LDP, I honestly express my apology.” A recent poll by a Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun indicated that at least 56% of the respondents opposed the state funeral, while 38% were in support. Additionally, last month at least four protests were held against the service, one of which was outside the parliament, which according to local media saw the participation of approximately 4,000 people. On the other hand, this month civic groups also presented online petitions, signed by 280,000 people, calling for the memorial service to be canceled, according to NHK. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan: What is the controversy surrounding the state funeral for former PM Shinzo Abe? 

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