Royal Scandal In New Row (Press, 27 July 1982)

On 27 July 1982, significant revelations emerged regarding security lapses involving the Queen’s personal bodyguard, Michael Trestrail. Trestrail had served as the Queen's bodyguard for nine years before resigning following the public disclosure of a homosexual affair with male prostitute Michael Rauch. In a statement presented through his lawyer, Trestrail disclosed that he had not undergone the necessary security clearance—known as positive vetting—until about three to four months before his resignation. This statement came in response to assertions made by the Home Secretary, William Whitelaw, in the House of Commons, who claimed that Trestrail had been granted security clearance without specifying the details. Conservative MP Jill Knight expressed her concerns about the implications of these revelations, stating that the situation was “quite extraordinary” and underscored the paramount importance of protecting the Queen. She indicated plans to confront Whitelaw with questions about the recent events that had shaken confidence in palace security. Trestrail, aged 51 at the time, clarified that under previous policies, security clearance was mainly reserved for those with access to secret documents, and he had not held such access. His recent vetting came only after changes to this policy. In his statement, Trestrail expressed sorrow for the embarrassment caused to the Queen, her family, and the police force, while his lawyer, Sir David Napley, attempted to downplay the nature of Trestrail's relationship with Rauch, describing it as casual and having ended years earlier. Allegations emerged that Trestrail had misled authorities during the vetting process, having reportedly denied any homosexual background. However, it was suggested that the Palace, along with senior police and security services, was aware of Trestrail's sexual orientation, yet allowed the situation to persist without intervention. The “News of the World” newspaper reported that the Queen was understandably upset by the public exposure of Trestrail's affair and had preferred a more discreet exit for him from his role. Further, the paper alleged the existence of a “homosexual mafia” within the Palace, suggesting an informal network supporting Trestrail. The scandal welcomed harsh scrutiny on the failings of security protocols protecting the monarchy, raising serious questions about the procedures in place to ensure the safety of the royal family amidst growing public and political tension over the matter.

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