UK trade pays tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

The death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has sent shock waves through the nation as well as the wider world.

UK trade bodies and hospitality groups have paid heartfelt tributes to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following the sad news of her death at Balmoral yesterday afternoon, describing her as an “inspiration” who “touched the lives of millions” during her 70-year reign.

Her Majesty should always be recognised as an extraordinary person whom David Cameron, the former Prime Minister, described as ‘the world’s greatest public servant and…most experienced diplomat’.

In issuing a statement on the death of Her Majesty The Queen, the Food & Drink Federation said:

“The United Kingdom’s food and drink industry is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at Balmoral on 8 September. The Food and Drink Federation, our member companies and all those who work across our industry express our sincerest condolences to His Majesty King Charles III and the Queen Consort, and to the whole Royal Family.

“Queen Elizabeth dedicated her life to serving our nation, and we owe her a debt of gratitude.”

The Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association: “We would like to express our sadness following the news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She dedicated her life to service. On behalf of the Northern Ireland food and drink industry, we offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this time.”

Paying tribute to The Queen, Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, said: “The passing of HM The Queen is a devastating loss to the nation. My prayers are with her family at this terribly sad time. She has touched the lives of millions during her reign and her leadership, service and sense of duty will remain an inspiration.”

Matt Lambert, CEO of the Portman Group, commented on the Queen’s “extraordinary legacy” in a statement put out following the news of her death.

He said: “It is with deep sadness that we learn of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and we send our sincere and heartfelt condolences to His Majesty the King and the Royal Family for their loss. We will always be grateful for Her Majesty’s extraordinary legacy and many years of loyal service to the United Kingdom.”

A number of trade bodies and national organisations will now observe a period of national mourning.

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