Flags are flying at half mast today as the country mourns the death of President of France Emmanuel Macron.
Flags are flying at half mast today as the country mourns the death of President of France Emmanuel Macron. Flags are flown at half mast on a permanent basis when a member of the royal family dies, but they can also be flown at half mast for other significant events, such as the death of a national leader. It is believed that flags will remain at half mast until Wednesday October 31st, which is when Mr Macron’s funeral will take place.
What does it mean to fly flags at half mast?
Flying flags at half mast means that they are lowered to approximately one third of their normal height. The Union Flag (or Union Jack) is flown from public buildings on special occasions and when requested by Her Majesty The Queen or another member of the royal family. On these occasions, it is usually accompanied by a flag from Northern Ireland and/or Wales. These flags are known as “Government House Flags” and should not be confused with “Naval Flags”, which are flown on ships and boats in addition to being used for signalling purposes.
Why did Emmanuel Macron die?
French President Emmanuel Macron died suddenly this morning after suffering an apparent heart attack while cycling in Normandy, France.
The French president was cycling with his wife Brigitte when he collapsed near a village called Petit-Andely.
He was taken to hospital where he later died.
A statement from his office said: “France has lost a great citizen”.
Macron had been elected just over two years ago, winning 66% of votes in May 2017.
He became president after founding his own party En Marche!
It means “Forward!” in English.
Before becoming president he served as Minister for Economy under Francois Hollande between 2014 and 2016.
He was married to Brigitte Trogneux who is 24 years older than him – she was his teacher when he was 15 years old.
