Who qualifies for a state funeral?
The head of state is automatically entitled to a state funeral, but with the approval of the monarch and a vote in parliament, other “exceptionally distinguished persons” may also be given a state funeral. In the event of Lady Thatcher’s death, it would be up to the prime minister to advise Buckingham Palace on whether she should be given a state funeral. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport, which has a responsibility for big ceremonial events, insists it is “fanciful” to suggest that a decision has been taken on a state funeral for Thatcher. “She may well have one, but it’s not organised or thought about in advance for reasons of taste and courtesy,” a spokesman insisted. According to the Mail on Sunday, both No 10 and Buckingham Palace have already consented.
