Wales Pays Tribute to Queen Elizabeth ll
Political leaders lead tributes the UK's longest-serving monarch
Across Wales, tributes are being paid following tonight's news of the death of Queen Elizabeth ll.
As the country enters a period of national mourning, all Senedd business is suspended and the Senedd’s flags will be flown at half-mast.
The Llywydd, Rt Hon. Elin Jones MS, said: “Queen Elizabeth II served the United Kingdom with a dignity that endeared her to millions around the world.
“She reigned during a time that has seen great constitutional and social change in our country. She attended every Senedd opening ceremony since its inception, reflecting her recognition of this Parliament’s contribution to Welsh life.
“The Queen will be remembered for her lifelong commitment to public service, including championing many charities and organisations in Wales.
“The Senedd sends its condolences to her family.”
Plaid Cymru Leader Adam Price said: "Her Majesty the Queen’s long reign saw a period of immense change for Wales, the United Kingdom and the rest of the world.
Her deeply held sense of duty was recognised by millions across the globe, and many will remember her as a figure which provided comfort, stability and continuity during times of crisis.
On behalf of Plaid Cymru, I extend our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this difficult time."
Plaid Cymru Westminster leader, Liz Saville Roberts MP said: "The Plaid Cymru group in Westminster extend our deepest condolences to the Royal Family during this very sad time.
“Her Majesty the Queen has been a constant in all our lives during a period of vast changes for Wales, the United Kingdom and the rest of the world. She dedicated her life to public service and duty. Such values are dear to the people of Wales. May she rest in peace.”
Welsh Conservative Leader Andrew RT Davies said: “The sad news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s passing will touch many families not just in the United Kingdom, but also across the Commonwealth and the world.
“Many of us will not have known another Head of State of our great country.
“For many, she has been as much a part of our families as those who gather each day around the family table.
“Today, there will be an empty chair around those tables, as many will reflect on her 70-year reign and a lifetime of public service.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family at this sad time.
“In the fullness of time, our sadness will give way to the sunshine of memories that her reign has brought to our lives and our great country.
“In the immediate days following on from this sad news, we must unite in our grief and take strength that our country and the Commonwealth are better places today for her long reign and life of public service.”
Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. My thoughts are with the King, her majesty’s other children, grandchildren and all those close to her at this difficult time.
“Her Majesty’s passing, without a doubt, does mark the end of a very long, and indeed a seminal chapter in the history of our nations and for most people her presence has been one of the few constants throughout their lives.
“Throughout her life, Her Majesty served the country with the absolute greatest dedication, honour and dignity. From serving in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War Two, to taking the time to speak to local schoolchildren at the opening of the Senedd last year, she never once shied away from public duty.
“Her life will forever be interlinked with that of a period of great change within the UK and although many today would struggle to recognise the world she had been born into, she always seemed to belong very much here today in the present.
“Her Majesty was always a great friend to Wales and she will be deeply missed within the UK, the Commonwealth and further afield. I pray that her journey into the next stage has been peaceful and that she is at rest.”