Government and state agencies ordered to raise Thai flag to half-mast

BANGKOK, July 28 (TNA) - The Thai Prime Minister's Office issued a statement on Thursday ordering all government and state agencies, as well as schools and other educational institutes across the country to lower the national flag to half-mast for 15 days, beginning from July 29, except August 12, the birthday anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, to mourn the passing away on July 27 of Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana, the only daughter of Thailand's late King Rama VI and Queen Suvadhana.

The official statement said that Thai caretaker prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has also ordered officials and staff of all government and state agencies to dress in black during the 15-day national mourning period for the late Princess, who had devoted her time to Thailand's educational, social welfare and charity projects.

The Bureau of the Royal Household announced that Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana, the only daughter of Thailand's late King Rama VI and Queen Suvadhana, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 85 at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok due to blood infection.

The Bureau of the Royal Household said that Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana was admitted to the Siriraj Hospital last Saturday after suffering from septicemia. (TNA)