Elizabeth II: What have councils done with late Queen's portraits?

In the wake of Queen Elizabeth II's passing, a debate has arisen regarding the fate of her portraits that adorn countless council buildings across the United Kingdom. These images, which have long been fixtures in public offices, meeting rooms, and community spaces, now find themselves at a crossroads. The transition from the late Queen's reign to that of her successor, King Charles III, has prompted a mixed response from local councils concerning the handling of these symbolic portraits. Some local authorities have chosen to remove the portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and place them in storage. This decision has sparked a wide range of reactions, from understanding and support to disappointment and objection. Councillors in certain areas have voiced strong opposition to the removal, arguing that these portraits represent an important part of the nation's heritage and should continue to be displayed in public spaces. The question of what to do with the late Queen's portraits is not merely a matter of interior decoration or council policy. It touches on deeper themes of tradition, memory, and the ways in which public figures, especially monarchs, are commemorated and remembered. Queen Elizabeth II's long reign – the longest of any British monarch – left an indelible mark on the country and its people. For many, her image is synonymous with stability, continuity, and a sense of collective identity. The move to retire her portraits from public view reflects not only the passage of time but also the beginning of a new era under King Charles III. It is a tangible sign of