US PRESIDENT Barack Obama’s attempt to toast Queen Elizabeth at a special state function last night in Buckingham Palace palace went somewhat awry, resulting in some awkward glances from the British monarch.
After introducing his toast, Obama paused for effect – and that’s when the band cut in.
Apparently not one to be silenced by a national anthem, Obama continued speaking over the music, although the Queen may have been trying to give him a hint a few times by glancing over.
Then came a second (arguably, more) awkward moment, when Obama raised his glass – alone – before realising everyone else was waiting for the music to finish.
Meeting Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg today, Obama made light of the toast mishap, saying: “It was like out of the movies, where the sound effect kind of comes in”.
Clegg responded by saying he thought the music had added a “crescendo” to his words.
- Additional reporting by the AP
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