The Queen has made an unannounced visit to MI5’s head office where she praised the intelligence officers for their response to “changing threats” to the United Kingdom. MI5 is the United Kingdom’s domestic counter-intelligence and security agency.
In a speech, The Queen said: “I would like to take my visit here today as an opportunity to thank you all for the tireless work you do to keep our country safe. I am always struck by the remarkable resolve with which you carry out your vital role.
“There will no doubt continue to be significant threats and challenges ahead. But on each of my visits to MI5, I have been impressed by the way that you have adapted to the changing threats to our nation. Whether responding to the threats from the Nazis or the Cold War, domestic terrorism or the cyber sphere, you have always demonstrated the utmost commitment to your motto: āRegnum Defendeā.
“Because of the nature of your work, it is without public recognition, so it is on behalf of the country that I say to you all, thank you.”
Her Majesty was spotted speaking to director-general Sir Andrew Parker outside the head office in London after her speech.
You can watch the full speech below:
