A remarkable glimpse into the steadfast character of the late Queen Elizabeth II has emerged, revealing a moment where her deep concern for her horses overrode royal protocol. Secret documents, now made public, detail her outright refusal to officially open Heathrow Airport's Terminal 5.
The controversy centred on the traditional 21-gun salute, a hallmark of major royal events. The Ministry of Defence had planned the loud, ceremonial honour to mark the occasion. However, the Queen's sharp foresight identified a critical problem: the thunderous booms would echo directly across to Windsor Home Park, startling the royal horses and the world-famous Guards' horses stabled there.
In a decisive move, Her Majesty's assistant private secretary, Robin Janvrin, communicated her firm stance. He stated the Queen was "not prepared to open the terminal" if the salute went ahead, effectively vetoing the plans. This wasn't a mere suggestion but a clear and unwavering condition.
The government, faced with the monarch's unexpected opposition, was sent into a flurry of activity. Whitehall officials scrambled to find a solution that would save the prestigious opening event. One desperate, and somewhat comical, proposal involved firing the guns on the opposite side of the terminal building in a bid to muffle the sound for Windsor.
Ultimately, the Queen's will prevailed. The gun salute was unceremoniously scrapped, and the monarch went on to open the £4.3 billion terminal in March 2008 without the customary fanfare of artillery fire. The event proceeded peacefully, much to the relief of the equine residents a few miles away.
This incident, hidden from the public for years, paints a vivid portrait of a sovereign who was not just a figurehead but a practical and compassionate animal lover. It showcases her willingness to bypass centuries of tradition to ensure the welfare of the creatures under her care, prioritising their well-being over a symbolic gesture.
