ITV This Morning speaks out after Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield slammed for 'jumping queue' to see Queen lying in state

This Morning has spoken out in defence of its two main presenters Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield after they have come under heavy criticism for 'jumping the queue' to see the Queen lying in state. The hosting duo were seen filing past Queen Elizabeth II's coffin on Friday (September 16).

The previous day, while hosting the ITV daytime show, the pair confirmed they would not be on air on Friday and return on Tuesday (September 20) where they would reflect on the Queen's state funeral. As the show would usually air, at around 10am, Holly, 41, and Phillip, 60 were spotted in Westminster Hall.

Their appearance came as hundred of thousands of people joined the queue to pay their final respects to the Queen with well-wishers waiting anything from a few to 24 hours to pay their respects to the late monarch. Holly and Phil made their way into the historic building to view the late monarch's coffin which is being seen by the public 24//7 until early Monday morning before her state funeral.

READ MORE: Adam Hills' savage remark over Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield 'queue jump' to see Queen lying in state

Phillip was seen being filmed on the BBC News live stream of Westminster Hall at around 10am. He opted to wear a smart black suit and tie for the visit, with the presenter sporting a sombre look on his face as he followed behind his co-star.

Holly appeared in front of her friend and colleague and at one point was seen looking back with tears filling her eyes. The mum-of-three looked elegant in a black dress with silver button detailing along the front. She tied her long blonde locks back with a black scrunchie and wore a matching black mask. ITV News' Mary Nightingale could also be seen behind them.

But as