King Charles III has taken over the throne after the tragic passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022. However, just over a year into his reign, the royal family received devastating news. Charles has been diagnosed with cancer following a surgery in January 2024 for a benign prostate enlargement.
In April 2024, it was revealed that the king’s health was deteriorating rapidly, and plans for his funeral were being updated. According to Tom Sykes from the Daily Beast, friends of the king have expressed concerns about his health, saying, “It’s not good.” Despite this, Charles remains determined to fight the illness, and his loved ones are doing everything they can to support him. However, insiders reveal that his condition is worse than what is being publicly disclosed.
As Charles continues to battle his health issues, plans for the future of the throne are being put into motion under the secret code name, Operation Menai Bridge. This operation, named after the world’s first iron suspension bridge in Anglesey, Wales, will outline the steps to be taken following Charles’ death. It is said to be similar to the 10-day plan known as Operation London Bridge, which was implemented for his mother, Elizabeth.
Preparations for Charles’ eventual passing reportedly began as soon as he ascended the throne, as revealed by former Royal Protection Officer Simon Morgan. The royal family and their advisors understand the importance of being prepared for such a significant event. Operation Menai Bridge will ensure a smooth transition of power and the continuation of the monarchy.
Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, has revealed that preparations for Operation Menai Bridge will begin soon. Speaking on the “Today” show in September 2022, he acknowledged that while he is committed to fulfilling his role as king, he is aware of his age (73) and the need to plan for the future.
Upon Charles’ passing, his eldest son, Prince William, will ascend to the throne, with his wife, Kate Middleton, becoming queen consort. The news of the king’s death will be shared with various individuals, including family members, the prime minister, senior ministers, and officials from the King’s Privy Council Office, by his private secretary.
The royal household will then issue an official notification to inform the public, following established scripts for notifying others of the news. Flags at Whitehall will be lowered to half-mast, and the cabinet secretary will send an email to ministers and senior civil servants.
The prime minister will be the first government official to make a statement, while the Ministry of Defence will arrange gun salutes and a minute of silence for the nation. Prince William, the new king, will meet with the prime minister and deliver a broadcast to the nation, similar to his father’s address when Queen Elizabeth II passed away.
In the days leading up to the funeral, plans will be made for various officials to mourn the late king as his coffin lies in state, from Buckingham Palace’s throne room to Westminster Hall. Finally, Prince Charles will be laid to rest in the royal vault at Windsor Castle’s King George VI Memorial Chapel.
In the event of the king’s death, the royal family’s website will display a black holding page with a brief statement confirming the news. Similarly, the UK government’s website, GOV.UK, will feature a black banner at the top, and government departmental social media pages will change their profile pictures to their respective departmental crests.
While code names were originally used to keep news of a royal’s death confidential until it was officially announced, they have now become more commonplace.
