Royal Security Gets Big Shake-up (Press, 23 July 1982)
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Summary: Royal Security Gets Big Shake-up (Press, 23 July 1982)
On 22 July 1982, the British Government announced significant changes to Royal security following a shocking incident where a man, Michael Fagan, gained access to the Queen's bedroom. A police investigation revealed that while there were technical failures, the primary issue was the police's inadequate and slow response to the situation. Fagan, aged 31, had spent approximately ten minutes in the Queen's presence, where he expressed his personal troubles and admiration for her, before being intercepted by a Royal chambermaid and a footman. The Home Secretary, William Whitelaw, addressed these security shortcomings in Parliament, outlining the steps that would be taken to improve protection for the Royal Family. This included the establishment of a new department at the Palace dedicated to all facets of Royal security, alongside a team of Palace, Government, and police officials who would frequently assess security protocols. In a related security scandal, Whitelaw also announced an inquiry into the Queen's former bodyguard Michael Trestrail, who had resigned from the police after admitting to an affair with a male prostitute. While there was no current evidence linking Fagan's intrusion to Trestrail's activities, Whitelaw indicated that the situation raised serious concerns about potential risks of blackmail resulting from Trestrail's confession. The police report noted that Fagan had entered the Queen's bedroom with a shard of glass, claiming he intended to harm himself in her presence. This caused alarm, leading the Queen to call for help. Initially gaining the attention of a maid, they managed to guide Fagan into a pantry under the pretense of offering a cigarette, while a footman assisted in keeping him calm until the police arrived. The report confirmed that a bloodstain from a minor injury on Fagan’s thumb was found on the Queen's bed, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation. Following the incident, a continuous police presence was instituted, with five inspectors assigned to the Palace to ensure someone would always be on duty. Ultimately, the authorities decided not to charge Fagan for the trespass but would prosecute him for previous offences, including an earlier unlawful entry into the Palace where he allegedly stole wine. This incident highlighted glaring weaknesses in the Royal security framework, prompting urgent reform to ensure the safety of the Royal Family.
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