King Charles’ blunt remark to Camilla over ‘missing’ item at VE Day parade revealed by lip reader
An awkward moment unfolded during the VE Day celebrations when **Keir Starmer broke royal protocol** to assist Queen Camilla. According to a lip reader, Camilla misplaced her water bottle, prompting King Charles to remark that hers “should be there, just like everyone’s.” Starmer then intervened, offering to fetch her water—prompting a grateful “Thank you, I am so parched today” from the Queen. However, his well-meaning **shoulder tap violated royal etiquette**, which dictates that physical contact must be initiated by the royal first.
The incident wasn’t the only lighthearted moment of the day. On the palace balcony, **Prince William and Prince George played “guess the aircraft”** during the flypast, with Camilla joining in—though she jokingly admitted, “I need to try harder” after guessing incorrectly. While younger royals like William and Kate occasionally bend protocol with hugs, Starmer’s gesture highlighted the **traditional boundaries** still in place for public interactions with the monarchy.