WATCH: Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield speak out against queue-jumping claims

Phillip and Holly said they understand the public's frustration.

Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby have responded to backlash after they reportedly skipped the queue at the Queen's lying in state. The pair claim they were present as journalists, but the public is furious over their behaviour. Both Phillip and Holly said they understand the backlash but insisted they didn't do anything wrong. Speaking on This Morning on Tuesday, the pair apologised to viewers. "We were given official permission to access the hall," Willoughby explained. "It was strictly for reporting on the event for millions of people in the UK who haven't been able to visit Westminster in person." She continued: "The rules were that we would be quickly escorted around the edges to a platform at the back. In contrast, those paying respect stood on a carpeted area beside the coffin and were given time to pause." https://twitter.com/scottygb/status/1572155315784916994?s=20&t=zs5EJX0fxpxdp7NQD_hwkg "None of the broadcasters or journalists there took anyone's place in the queue and no one filed past the Queen." "We, of course, respected those rules. However, we realised it may have looked like something else and therefore totally understand the reaction. Please know we would never jump the queue. Their joint statement comes after ITV stressed that they didn't jump the queue. "We would like to clarify something. We asked Phillip and Holly to be part of a film for this Tuesday’s programme. "They did not jump the queue, have VIP access or file past the Queen lying in state - but instead were there in a professional capacity as part of the world’s media to report on the event."