Bank Holiday for Queen's funeral as King Charles III formally declared

The announcement comes after King Charles III was formally declared as the new monarch following the death of his mother aged 96.

The new monarch automatically became King following the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II who passed away peacefully on Thursday aged 96.

However, the former Prince of Wales attended the Accession Council with the Privy Councillors which confirmed his role on Saturday morning.

The Queen's life in pictures

Part I involved the Privy Council, without The King present where they proclaimed the new Sovereign.

They also formally approved various consequential Orders, including the arrangements for the Proclamation.

The Palace has explained what the second part involved: “Part II, is the holding by The King of His Majesty’s first Privy Council. The King will make his Declaration and read and sign an oath to uphold the security of the Church in Scotland and approve Orders in Council which facilitate continuity of government.”

King Charles III during the Accession Council at St James's Palace, London, where King Charles III is formally proclaimed monarch. (Image: PA)

The new King approved a bank holiday to take place for the Queen's funeral as part of the Day of National Mourning.

Her Majesty's funeral is due to take place on Monday, September 19 and will be confirmed by Buckingham Palace.

Lord President of the Council Penny Mordaunt said: “Drafts of two proclamations. One – appointing the day of Her late Majesty’s state funeral as a bank holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“Two – appointing the day of Her late Majesty’s state funeral as a bank holiday in Scotland.

“And of two orders in council, directing the Lord Chancellor to affix the great seal to the proclamations.”

Charles answered: “Approved.”

King Charles III formally becomes King in historic ceremony

King Charles III with the Prince of Wales, the Queen during the Accession Council at St James's Palace, London, where King Charles III is formally proclaimed monarch. (Image: PA)

Making his declaration, the King said: “My lords, ladies and gentlemen, it is my most sorrowful duty to announce to you the death of my beloved mother the Queen.

“I know how deeply you, the entire nation, and I think I may say the whole world, sympathise with me in the irreparable loss we’ve all suffered.

“It is the greatest consolation to me to know the sympathy expressed by so many to my sister and brothers.

“And that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss.”

Continuing the declaration, the King said: “To all of us as a family as to this kingdom, and the wider family of nations of which it is a part, my mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.

“My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion.

“Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life.

“In taking up these responsibilities, I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these islands, and of the Commonwealth realms and territories throughout the world.

“In this purpose, I know that I shall be upheld by the affection and loyalty of the peoples whose Sovereign I have been called upon to be, and that in the discharge of these duties I will be guided by the counsel of their elected parliaments.”

Mourners pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Continuing the declaration, the King said: “In all this, I am profoundly encouraged by the constant support of my beloved wife.

“I take this opportunity to confirm my willingness and intention to continue the tradition of surrendering the hereditary revenues, including the Crown Estate, to my Government for the benefit of all, in return for the Sovereign Grant, which supports my official duties as Head of State and Head of Nation.

“And in carrying out the heavy task that has been laid upon me, and to which I now dedicate what remains to me of my life, I pray for the guidance and help of Almighty God.”