In focus: The few who are honoured

Last updated at 07:42 07 July 2005


There are 19 days each year when the Union Jack must be flown on government buildings.

The Queen receives the honour on her real birthday (April 21) and on her official birthday (June 11).

The flag is also raised on the anniversary of her accession (February 6), her marriage (November 20) and her coronation (June 2). The birthdays of the Duke of Edinburgh, the couple's four children and the Countess of Wessex are also recognised this way.

The flag also flew on the birthdays of Diana and the Duchess of York before their divorces.

The Queen makes the final decision on which Royals should be granted the honour. The directive is then sent out by the Department for Culture Media and Sport.

The order covers every central government office, armed forces' buildings such as barracks and bases, and crown, county and magistrates courts.

The list is also sent out to local authorities, which are then free to decide whether or not to follow the protocol. The other days when the Union Jack, more properly known as the Union flag, must be flown include Remembrance Sunday and Europe Day on May 9.

Other days can be added for a single year to mark special anniversaries. This year VE Day and VJ Day have been included.

Most watched News videos