Barack Obama says Queen ‘didn’t seem to mind’ wife Michelle placing her arm around the monarch

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Barack Obama has dismissed past criticisms that his wife Michelle broke royal protocol by placing her arm around the Queen’s shoulder, writing in his new memoirs that Her Majesty “didn’t seem to mind”. “Although the Queen didn't seem to mind, slipping her arm around Michelle in return.” The former US president’s autobiography is not the first to address the controversial moment. And with this, she busted out with a fully charming laugh.” The former FLOTUS added that she did what was “instinctive” to her by affectionately placing her hand across the Queen’s shoulder, unaware that she was “committing what would be deemed an epic faux pas”. For male members of the royal family the same rules apply, with the title used in the first instance being “Your Royal Highness” and subsequently “Sir”.