Queen Elizabeth II Issues 1st Statement since Prince Philip's Death

Queen Elizabeth II has issued on Friday the first official statement without her husband, and consort of the monarchy Prince Philip.

The 94-Monarch expressed in the statement her sympathy and support for St. Vincent and the Grenadines after the commonwealth nation saw a series of volcanic explosions.

The Queen initiated her statement for the first time ever without using "The Duke of Edinburgh and I," phrase. She started it with "I" only.

“I have been saddened by the destruction and major disruption caused by volcanic eruptions in recent days, and my thoughts are with the many people and families who have been evacuated from their homes, and whose livelihoods have been affected," Elizabeth II said.

She added: "I send my thanks to the emergency services and all those involved in the relief effort. My prayers will remain with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines at this very difficult time."

The Monarch resumed her work only four days after announcing the death of her "beloved husband," as she participated in the retirement ceremony of Lord Chamberlain Earl Peel.

Prince Philip's funeral will be held on Saturday in the presence of only 30 persons due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The list of the 30 Royal-guest included the Prince of Wales Charles, his wife Camilla who is the Duchess of Cornwell, Duke, and Duchess of Cambridge: William and Kate, Duke of York Andrew, Earl of Wessex Edward, and his wife Sophie who is the Countess of Wessex, Princess Royal Anne, and Duke of Sussex Harry.