The UK has developed a plan in case of the death of King Charles III, who was diagnosed with cancer: what does Operation Menai Bridge mean?

Due to the diagnosis of cancer in King Charles III, the probability of a change of power in the UK has increased. In the event of His Majesty's sudden death, the British government has a secret plan codenamed "Bridge of Menai." Similar procedures have already been carried out with other deceased members of the royal family.

According to the Express, the operation will last 10 days, including key events with the king's funeral, official announcements, and the accession of the next monarch, Prince William of Wales. The main idea behind the creation of such plans is to ensure a smooth transition of the transfer of power without any mishaps or problems.

The operation was so named for a reason. The Menai is one of the most prominent suspension bridges in the UK, connecting the island of England and the mainland of Wales. It was this landmark that was chosen as the name of Charles III's upcoming mourning operation because of his long and close connection to this part of England.

First of all, he is the member of the royal family who has held the title of Prince of Wales for the longest time – 64 years and 44 days. He received this title at the age of nine, but the ceremony did not take place until July 1, 1969, when Charles III turned 20. Since then, he has visited Wales every summer. In particular, His Majesty spent his student years at the College of Wales and learned the language and sometimes used it in speeches.

The British could learn about the king's death from a cascade of bells, and later the tragic news would be announced live on the BBC. The same procedure was followed after the death of Elizabeth II: on September 8, 2022, at 18:30, a BBC journalist broke the news to the public. The Queen died at 15:10 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

The"Operation Menai Bridge" will follow the same procedure as the "London Bridge" dedicated to Elizabeth II. The day after the death of Charles III, Prince William (the first in line to the throne) is obliged to deliver a speech and then the country will enter a period of mourning before the funeral. The day of the king's death will be labeled as D-Day, and all subsequent days as D-Day+1, etc.

Originally, these code names were introduced to prevent the media from publicizing news of a royal death before the official announcement. However, these names have now become common knowledge. For example, the death of Princess Diana was called "Operation Tyne Bridge," Prince Philip's was called "Operation Fort Bridge," and King George IV's was called "Hyde Park Corner."

As reported by OBOZ.UA, despite the fatal diagnosis, Charles III feels great, so he tries to fulfill his royal duties at least minimally. He holds a weekly Privy Council with the Prime Minister in person, although his health condition forced him to do it remotely.

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