SNP quietly announces Queen Elizabeth II memorial plans despite silence at party conference

Instead, the announcement arrived via a Government press release hours after the conference wrapped up, prompting suggestions that senior figures within the SNP were wary of provoking a hostile reaction from republican-minded members in attendance.

The party had already faced criticism for dragging its feet on the memorial compared with more advanced plans elsewhere in the United Kingdom, a particularly pointed charge given that the late Queen died on Scottish soil four years ago.

The consultation centres on a newly launched online portal where members of the public can put forward suggestions regarding the memorial’s purpose, appearance, scale and potential site. Personal recollections of the late Queen and her ties to Scotland are also being sought.

Behind the project sits the Scotland Legacy Group, which is drawing up proposals with the backing of £1.4million in capital funding provided by the UK Government. The group is chaired by Dr Joseph Morrow, who serves as Lord Lyon King of Arms.

Contributions submitted through the portal will feed into decisions about how the memorial might enhance Scotland’s cultural, heritage, environmental and community landscape.

The online consultation is set to run for eight weeks, closing on December 13, while a parallel programme of in-person engagement events will continue through the autumn and into late 2026.

Culture Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Queen Elizabeth held a special place in the hearts of many people across Scotland. Her passing in 2022 prompted an outpouring of affection and respect.”

She added: “She had a strong connection to Scotland, and it is right that those across the country who would wish to have the opportunity to help shape how that legacy is remembered for future generations.”

Ms McAllan stressed the importance of gathering a wide range of perspectives, stating: “We want to hear a broad range of voices, from community and cultural organisations to schools, young people and those with a particular connection to Queen Elizabeth.

“This memorial should reflect the memories, values and experiences of the people of Scotland, while creating something lasting that future generations can enjoy, use and take pride in.”

Dr Joseph Morrow welcomed the opening of the portal, saying: “The online engagement portal is a key part in the work of the Scotland Legacy Group, and I am delighted that we are now at a stage where it is open for the public to give their views.

“Queen Elizabeth held Scotland and Scottish life in great affection, and the portal is an opportunity for everyone to give their thoughts and ideas which will help shape how we create a fitting tribute to the life of our longest reigning monarch.”

The face-to-face element of the consultation will be steered by Lord Lieutenants working alongside youth organisations, educational bodies and community representatives to draw in as broad a cross-section of Scottish society as possible.

Groups connected to the late Queen through her patronages, as well as institutions from the culture and heritage sector, universities and schools, are all expected to take part.

Queen Elizabeth died at Balmoral on September 8, 2022, just two days after receiving Liz Truss at the Aberdeenshire estate following her appointment as Prime Minister. She was the first reigning monarch to die in Scotland since 1542.

Thousands of mourners lined the streets as her coffin was transported to St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, before being flown south to London five days later.

The SNP Government has previously attracted criticism for allowing Scotland’s memorial plans to fall behind those in other parts of the United Kingdom, despite the country’s unique significance as the place where the late Queen’s 70-year reign came to an end.

No design or location has yet been settled upon. The Scotland Legacy Group is expected to deliver its formal recommendations to the First Minister and King Charles in spring 2027.