FCDO Services was heavily involved in Operation London Bridge – the government’s funeral plan for the death of the Late Queen Elizabeth II. As the country stopped to pay their respects over the two-week mourning period, a team of dedicated and passionate staff from across our organisation put in an extraordinary effort.

They worked hard to ensure senior ministers, VIP visitors and government officials could carry out their duties safely and securely, and without disruption. With London in a heightened state of security, a heavy police presence, road closures, barriers and military rehearsals were all taking place – making access to key ministerial and government offices more challenging.

Over the two-week mourning period, a team of dedicated and passionate staff from across our organisation put in an extraordinary effort.

Despite this, our London Car Service adapted quickly and continued to transport Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) officials around the city. Our External Messengers were making sure classified documents and red boxes were delivered on time. And the FCDO Services Hanslope Park Transport Team provided a vital connection to London for the newly-established FCDO Crisis Teams.

Within hours of forming, they needed laptops, screens and other IT equipment. Our team even carried out extra runs, answering requests at 2pm and delivering them by 5pm the same day. The Technology and Operations directorate were quick to respond, too. With an increased need for Wi-Fi, they supplied additional access points as well as extra TVs and digital signage, all to keep essential communications online.

“The Logistics and FCDO Services Operations departments do commendable work that supports the most vital national projects. “

Staff also volunteered in the FCDO’s Arrivals and Departures Hub, managing the arrangements of heads of state and government, as well as other senior foreign dignitaries who attended the funeral. And on the day of the event, Foreign Secretary The Rt Hon James Cleverley flew to New York for the UN General Assembly – supported by our Logistics team. They transferred important documents and items for the event, and expertly navigated significant road closures and traffic to reach the airport on time.

The result of this incredible team effort? Ministers got where they needed to be, when they needed to be there, and FCDO and One HMG teams were able to support Operation London Bridge seamlessly, securely, and without disruptions.

Our Head of Classified Services said: “It’s a privilege and an honour to work as part of this team. All in all, the Logistics and FCDO Services Operations departments do commendable work that supports the most vital national projects, and without their experience, expertise and professionalism, the smooth preparations and running of this vital and historic event would have been much more challenging to deliver for the front line staff.”