I am deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty the Queen.
She was a remarkable monarch who dedicated her life to public service and fulfilled her role with dignity and grace. She was an inspiration to many across the globe.
I was pleased and honoured to have met Her Majesty, albeit virtually, when I was appointed to the Privy Council in 2021. I was struck by her dedication to her constitutional duty and her charm at making me, and my colleagues feel at ease.
Our country now enters a period of national mourning, and as such Parliament will not be sitting.
My thoughts are with King Charles III and all the Royal Family.
