I just watched The Queen and I'm curious as to how something I saw got started.?

Question

In one scene, when the Prime Mister is leaving, he and the other gentlemen are walking backwards before he leaves out thru the door. Is done with all members of the royal family or just the queen?

Answer 1

Yes, it's because given their morals if you turn your back you are likely to get a nasty surprise.

Answer 2

You must never turn your back to the King, Queen or the heir to the throne - it is fine to so to other royals.

Answer 3

I believe it's done with all members of the royal family..

Answer 4

Just the Queen (or King). Presumably so one doesn't turn one's back to the monarch as a sign of rudeness.

Answer 5

You only do this in the presence of a monarch. It is a royal gesture for showing respect.

I actually enjoyed watching "The Queen" myself and Helen Mirren did an excellent acting job as Queen Elizabeth II. Many scenes in the movie were actual footage of the royal events (like public speeches made by the queen and Tony Blair and footage of people placing flowers outside of Buckingham Palace).

Answer 6

Yes, its one of those ancient rules which says that you don't turn your back on a monarch. Presumably this only affects you in formal circumstances, such as the scene you mention. Its just a mark of respect.