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Coats & Candid: The Evacuation of The Royal Family in an Emergency

Iain Betson


Region:
West Midlands
Notice Period:
Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:
Professional
Fee:
Paid: Online delivery: £40.00. In-person: £55.00 plus 50p/mile expenses
Category:
History
Updated:
20th February 2026

Since World War Two, detailed plans have been made to move the Monarch, as Head of State, to a safe location to facilitate the continuation of the UK Government, regardless of the situation in the country itself. Using images, audio and de-classified documents, Iain Betson tells the fascinating story of these plans, first conceived as Britain faced invasion in 1940, through the threat of the Cold War to, surprisingly, the plans that exist for such an evacuation today.

Views: 18 | Enquiries: 0

About Iain Betson

Apart from two years, when he built nuclear missiles at a secret research centre, (true story!) and being a signatory of the Official Secrets Act as a result, Iain Betson has worked all his professional life in the television and radio broadcasting industry, both in the UK and internationally. A BBC trained radio engineer and training instructor, he trained many of the journalists you see and hear on UK radio and television news.

His talks both reflect his professional experience and interests. He is able to bring real-world knowledge to enhance the delivery.

Feel confident to book me

As a professional trainer, of many years standing, I have no worries in delivering my talks in front of an audience, be they online or in-person. I "de-jargon" the subject to make the talk accessible to all and can adjust my delivery to suit a varied audience. I am always willing to take questions at the end.

I have my own presentation equipment: laptop, (microphone if required) , projector and screen or can connect to a large TV monitor via the appropriate cables

I charge £40.00 for an online and £50.00 for in-person delivery for any talk. Mileage expense is charged at 50p/mile.

Testimonials

"Iain many thanks for your professionally delivered talk. It was very relevant in view of the Ukraine invasion. I will certainly keep you in mind for if I am asked for recommendations."

"Thank you for a most interesting and informative talk, which was enjoyed by all our members. I have to say that I don’t remember being as frightened in the 70s and 80s as when I heard your recordings from the time!"

Groups I have delivered to

  • Civic and history societies
  • Probus
  • Engineering societies
  • Rotary clubs
  • U3A & senior learning groups

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