Big Ben’s Renaming Backed By Majority Of MPs

Big Ben, Britain’s famous clock tower, could soon be going by a new name. A majority of MPs are supporting a proposal that would change the clock’s name to the Elizabeth Tower in honor of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Big Ben’s renaming proposal currently has 331 signatures from Members of Parliament.

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

“It is great news that so many MPs from across the House are backing what would be a fitting tribute to the Queen. I hope it will now move ahead.”

Tobias Ellwood, who introduced the proposal, said:

“Commemorating an iconic landmark as famous as Parliament is indeed a truly exceptional tribute and I am grateful that the majority of MPs believe the Queen deserves such an outstanding accolade…. Of all the forty-one monarchs who have reigned over England and the United Kingdom since William the Conqueror, only Her Majesty and Queen Victoria have reached this Diamond Jubilee land mark.”

The AFP reports that the 316 foot tower is formally known as The Clock Tower. Around the world, however, it is known as Big Ben.

The House of Commons Commission is expected to meet by the end of June to officially rename Big Ben.

Do you think Big Ben should be renamed The Elizabeth Tower in honor of the Queen’s 60th year on the throne?