Prince Charles greeted US President George Bush at Heathrow Airport on Tuesday, as hundreds of secret services agents joined forces with Scotland Yard to launch one of the biggest security operations Britain has ever seen.
Marine One, a special military helicopter fitted with anti-missile technology, then conveyed Mr Bush and his wife Laura to Buckingham Palace, where they will stay for the duration of their three-day visit.
The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh waited until Wednesday morning to welcome their VIP houseguest. The president is also scheduled to meet the families of Britons who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks, at the American Embassy in Grosvenor Square.
Some of his appointments have been cancelled, however, amid fears of large anti-war protests. There was also a security scare when one demonstrator managed to break through the "ring of steel" at Buckingham Palace and scale the gates. A threat to "bring down" Air Force One was also phoned in to Scotland Yard, though it was deemed to be a hoax after security experts analysed it.
And security officials at the Palace were left red-faced after a tabloid reporter managed to secure a job at the royal residence under false pretences. The position gave him access to the Queen and to quarters later occupied by Mr Bush.
Downing Street has meanwhile welcomed the American statesman's visit, though some MPs have expressed disappointment he will only spend two-and-a-half hours with Tony Blair during his stay.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
