MPs pay tribute to longest-reigning UK monarch

South London MPs have been paying their respects to the Queen after Her Majesty’s death at the age of 96 yesterday.

The Queen passed away at her beloved Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, with her death being announced by Buckingham Palace at around 6.30pm.

Tributes have poured in from around the country for the UK’s longest-serving monarch, and South London’s Members of Parliament have been among them.

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, the shadow cabinet member for mental health and MP for Tooting, said: “We mourn the loss of Queen Elizabeth, who gave so much of herself for us all.

“An immense sadness is felt across Tooting, with so many residents getting in contact to share their own memories and stories of how Her Majesty brought light to their lives, especially in times of darkness.

“This is a sadness that is echoed throughout the country and all around the world. Rest in Peace Your Majesty.”

Ellie Reeves, Labour MP for Lewisham West and Penge, said: “This is a deeply sad moment. But I take heart in the tributes being paid to the Queen the world over.

“This is testament to her incredible service, dedication and life. My thoughts are with her family at this difficult time.”

Janet Daby, Labour MP for Lewisham East, added: “Her late Majesty the Queen, who was the world’s longest-serving monarch has died.

“She was for me and for so many of my constituents a constant and reliable figure for our great nation.

“Her late Majesty will be sorely missed but she will always be remembered, as she served her country with dignity and grace.

“One of the finest quotes I have heard about her is ‘neither did she explain herself and neither did she complain’. She rose to each challenge, and she dedicated her life to her nation.

“One of my earliest memories of meeting the Queen was when I was seven years old, I met her during her visit to South-east London.

“My mother’s earliest memory of meeting the Queen was around the same age, many years earlier in the Caribbean. Of course, as a child my best street party was in 1977 during the Silver Jubilee. She also gave us cause for much joy and celebration.

“I am grateful that she was able to mark her Platinum Jubilee earlier this year. This brought together thousands of people from across Lewisham where over 100 street parties were held to celebrate her many achievements.

“My thoughts are with her family, with our nation and for all that mourn Her late Majesty the Queen.”

Bell Ribeiro-Addy, MP for Streatham, said: “Whatever your views on monarchy, it’s important to acknowledge the magnitude of this moment and sense of loss people will be feeling at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, our country’s longest serving public servant.

“A family have lost a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and we send our sincerest condolences to all of them at this difficult time. May she rest in peace.”

Pictured top: A woman kisses a small child as they look at the flowers laid outside Buckingham Palace following the death of Queen Elizabeth II yesterday (Picture: PA)