SPORTING bodies have been advised by the Government in this morning’s meeting that events can take place this weekend provided they are staged in a commemorative and respectful manner.

Julian Knight, the chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee, said: "This seems to be a sensible approach – that it’s going to be up to individual sports how they mark the passing of our remarkable Queen.

"Whether that is silences, the wearing of black armbands or the singing of the National Anthem, or whether there will be those who wish at this time that perhaps there won’t be having an event at all – it’s completely up to the individual sports.

"But the Government guidance seems to be relatively flexible and understanding."

Official mourning guidance published by the Government this morning read: "There is no obligation to cancel or postpone events and sporting fixtures, or close entertainment venues during the National Mourning period. This is at the discretion of individual organisations.

"As a mark of respect, organisations might wish to consider cancelling or postponing events or closing venues on the day of the State Funeral. They are under no obligation to do so and this is entirely at the discretion of individual organisations.

"If sporting fixtures or events are planned for the day of the State Funeral, organisations may want to adjust the event timings so they do not clash with the timings of the funeral service and associated processions.

"As a mark of respect, and in keeping with the tone of National Mourning, organisers may wish to hold a period of silence and/or play the National Anthem at the start of events or sporting fixtures, and players may wish to wear black armbands."

An official announcement on whether this weekend's Premier League and EFL football matches will take place or not is expected soon.