Phillip & Holly respond to backlash
This Morning's Phillip and Holly faced major backlash for not queueing with the public to see the Queen lying in state.
They addressed the backlash on television earlier today.
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In a voiceover reflecting on the last few days since the Queen's death, Holly could be heard saying: "Like hundreds of accredited broadcasters and journalists we were given official permission to access the hall."
"It was strictly for the purpose of reporting on the event for millions of people in the UK who have not been able to visit Westminster in person."
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She continued, "The rules were that we would be quickly escorted around the edges to a platform at the back."
"In contrast, those paying respect walked along a carpeted area beside the coffin and were given time to pause."
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"None of the broadcasters and journalists there took anyone’s place in the queue and no one filed past the Queen. We of course respected those rules."
"However, we realise that it may have looked like something else, and therefore totally understand the reaction."
"Please know that we would never jump a queue.”
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'This Morning,' release a statement
In a statement posted on Instagram on Saturday, This Morning backed their presenters, saying they asked them to be there.
'We asked Phillip and Holly to be part of a film for this Tuesday’s programme.'
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The statement concluded, 'They did not jump the queue, have VIP access or file past the Queen lying in state – but instead were there in a professional capacity as part of the world’s media to report on the event.'
