Moment of Brexit to be marked with an explosive sendoff
No Big Ben bongs: UK government plans light show to mark moment of Brexit
Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street residence will be lit up with a countdown to Britain's exit from the European Union on Jan. 31, as part of a light display to mark the moment of Brexit, the government said on Friday.
"January 31st is a significant moment in our history as the United Kingdom leaves the EU and regains its independence," Johnson's office said in a statement setting out its plans to mark Brexit - a moment which will be celebrated by some and mourned by others in a country still divided on the issue.
"The government intends to use this as a moment to heal divisions, re-unite communities and look forward to the country that we want to build over the next decade."
On the evening of January31, Johnson will address the nation, his office said. Earlier in the day, he will hold a special meeting of his top team of ministers in northern England.
The government said it plans to broadcast the light display in Downing Street on social media, including a clock counting down to 2300 GMT, the moment Brexit officially takes place. Other buildings around the government district of Whitehall will also be lit up.
The Union Jack is flown on all of the flag poles around Parliament Square, where Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has been permitted to hold a party with speeches and music.
A commemorative Brexit coin, inscribed with the words "Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations", will also be put into circulation on the day Britain leaves the EU, the government said.