Mexico's president given George Orwell's 1984 by the Queen

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Source: Telegraph

Mexico's president given George Orwell's 1984 by the Queen

The president of Mexico received one of the more unusual gifts given by the Queen during an incoming state visit today - a copy of the classic dystopian novel 1984.

President Of Mexico And Senora Zavala Visit The Royal Collection.
Senora Margarita Zavala and the Duke of Edinburgh view an exhibition of Mexican items from The Royal Collection Photo: GETTY

At Buckingham Palace, Felipe Calderon was presented with a first edition of George Orwell's nightmarish book, which tells of a totalitarian regime and coined the concept Big Brother.

The Royal Household seeks guidance from the staff of incoming VIPs when deciding what to offer during the official exchange of gifts.

A Palace spokeswoman said: "Apparently the president really admires George Orwell."

The 1949 book was boxed in leather by the bindery at Windsor.

Mr Calderon also received the traditional present given to guests - framed photographs of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

The president's wife Margarita Zavala received a small silver box with EIIR inscribed in gold on the lid.

The Queen received a Maque tray from Michoacan, the Mexican state from which the president comes. Philip received a wooden Olinala chest.

The exchange of gifts between rulers is a long-standing custom. In 1520 Henry VIII and Francis I of France exchanged gifts at the Field of Cloth of Gold in northern France.

During a state visit, the exchange usually happens on the first day and serves as a gesture of goodwill between the two nations.