ACTOR Ricky Tomlinson has questioned why co-star and beloved friend Caroline Aherne was not given a state funeral – considering Margaret Thatcher received the honour.

In a link-up interview with Good Morning Britain yesterday morning, Ricky Tomlinson paid tribute to the Royle Family star, who passed away at her Timperley home in July.

The 52-year-old had been diagnosed with lung cancer in 2014 and her funeral was a private memorial near her home on July 14, which was attended by close family and friends.

“She was a wonderful person and very generous,” said Ricky in the interview.

“I got all the big lines, I got all the big laughs. Her and Craig Cash were just in the background yet they were the creators, the writers, but they were very generous to me and Sue Johnson.

“I will love her forever.”

Ending the interviewing, host Susanna Reid thanked Ricky for his time – Ricky was finished yet.

He interjected: “Can I just say one thing? Why didn’t she have a state funeral? Everyone loved her. We had a state funeral for Margaret Thatcher and everyone hated her.”

Back in the studio, a surprised Piers Morgan gave an awkward chuckle before ended the link-up saying, “You have got a point there.” 

You can catch-up on the video here.

What do you think of the comment? Do you think Caroline should have been given a state funeral?

Comment below.