The United Kingdom only recently went through the seismic event of Queen Elizabeth II passing away, but plans are already being discussed for the potential death of King Charles.
He took over from his mother in September 2022 when the Queen passed away, but his recent diagnosis with prostate cancer has led many to wonder what the plan is if he does not live for much longer.
The succession of Charles III to the thrown was an incredibly swift process, and that is because Operation London Bridge was in place. That was the plan of action for the Queen’s death.
Therefore, there must be a similar plan ready for the potential death of Charles.
There is, and it is called Operation Menai Bridge. These plans are in place to explain how key events and announcements will be made in the event of a death, what will happen during the official mourning period and how the state funeral will unfold.
Why is it called Operation Menai Bridge?
Menai Bridge is a suspension bridge in Wales and the name is said to have been chosen because Charles has a great fondness for Wales.
Charles was the longest-serving Prince of Wales, at 64 years and 44 days, and the oldest person to hold the position. He received the title when he was nine years old, following his mother’s accession and his investiture to the role took place in Wales in July 1969, when he was 20.
Who would be king if Charles III dies?
It is presumed that Operation Menai Bridge would play out very similarly to Operation London Bridge, in the sense that the announcement would be made to the public on BBC News.
Prince William would then become the King and he would need to address the nation.