The Queen, who is in the middle of a 10-day trip to Australia, was said to be unconcerned by Ms Gillard's decision to bow and shake her hand instead of bending at the knee.
The prime minister's greeting incensed some quarters of the Australia media, and many monarchists, who accused Ms Gillard of offensive behaviour and embarrassing the nation.
However, a Buckingham Palace spokesman said the Queen was happy with Ms Gillard's choice.
"The person who is least concerned about protocol is the Queen, we've always said do what you feel comfortable with," she said.
"Absolutely no offence was taken at all – it's a storm in a royal teacup." In fact, the Queen had been "delighted" with the warm reception she has received so far on her visit, the spokesman said. Huge crowds turned out in Brisbane on Monday to wave and cheer the royal couple as they took a cruise up the Brisbane River. » | Bonnie Malkin, Canberra | Tuesday, October 25, 2011
