THE Queen and Duke of Edinburgh are to attend the funeral of Baroness Thatcher next Wednesday, it was announced today.
The ceremony, expected to be attended by dignitaries from around the world, will be held at St Paul’s cathedral.
A Downing Street spokesman said the date had been agreed at a Government "co-ordination meeting" with the Thatcher family and Buckingham Palace this morning.
A statement from the Palace said: "The Queen, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, will attend the funeral service of Baroness Thatcher at St Paul’s Cathedral next Wednesday."
Labour MP John Mann questioned why taxpayers' money was being spent recalling Parliament tomorrow, when tributes could be paid after recess next week.
"I would have done it on Monday when Parliament reassembles," he said. "I do not know why we are wasting taxpayers’ money on an additional session.
"It is perfectly valid that, when a prime minister dies, MPs can pay tribute, but this could be perfectly properly done on Monday."
Mr Mann said he would not be attending the session tomorrow.
"I will be at the dentist’s," he added.
