Big Ben to be silent during Thatcher funeral

LONDON, April 16 (UPI) -- The chimes of Big Ben, one of London's best-known landmarks, will be silenced during former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's funeral, officials say.

John Bercow, speaker of the House of Commons, announced the plan Monday, The Guardian reported. He said silencing the clock, formally the Great Clock of Westminster, is a way for Parliament to show its respect.

"I believe that there can be a profound dignity and deep respect expressed in and through silence and I'm sure that the house will agree," he said.

Thatcher's funeral is to take place Wednesday at St. Paul's Cathedral. A dress rehearsal was held Monday afternoon.