Story perspectives

Government Files Reveal Apology for Queen Mother's Telegram Error

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

Newly-released government files show that Downing Street apologized for a misaddressed birthday telegram from Prime Minister John Major to the Queen Mother in 1994.
The Queen Mother's private secretary requested clarification, prompting No 10 to blame British Telecom for the mistake.
Despite the error, the Queen Mother expressed gratitude to Major for his message.
Documents regarding a conversation between Tony Blair and French President Jacques Chirac after Princess Diana's death in 1997 were withheld to protect future diplomatic relations.
Released papers included telegrams from the British ambassador to France, detailing public grief and the French authorities' response.

1 of 1

Story summary

Newly-released government files show that Downing Street apologized for a misaddressed birthday telegram from Prime Minister John Major to the Queen Mother in 1994.
The Queen Mother's private secretary requested clarification, prompting No 10 to blame British Telecom for the mistake.
Despite the error, the Queen Mother expressed gratitude to Major for his message.
Documents regarding a conversation between Tony Blair and French President Jacques Chirac after Princess Diana's death in 1997 were withheld to protect future diplomatic relations.
Released papers included telegrams from the British ambassador to France, detailing public grief and the French authorities' response.