Roy Jenkins – 1974 Statement on the Kidnap of Princess Anne

Below is the text of the statement made by Roy Jenkins, the then Home Secretary, in the House of Commons on 20 March 1974.

I regret to have to report to the House that an attempt was made by an armed man to kidnap Princess Anne at about 8 p.m. this evening when she was on her way back to Buckingham Palace with her husband.

The attempt did not succeed, and neither the Princess nor Captain Phillips was hurt.

I much regret to say, however, that Princess Anne’s protection officer sustained very severe injuries, and her driver, a police constable and a member of the public were also seriously hurt.

A man has been detained and is now helping the police with their inquiries.

I shall report further to the House when further information is available.