[GEaston]

Cost of the funeral is 8m. Value of the publicity as it's broadcast around the world...? Priceless.

The direct increase in tourist visitors to the country as a direct result in the months that follow will massively exceed the cost.

To argue that this 8m could be better spent is as stupid an argument as saying we shouldn't be buying the Duchess of Cambridge a new dress every day. The Royal family cost a lot of money, but they bring 100x payback in tourist receipts.

Same here: loads of pomp and ceremony, hours of live TV beamed around the world and on every news channel for days is great for UK plc.

Plus its a fitting recognition of the great lady's achievements.