Several of the MCSOPD pipers were recently discussing who the Scots Guards piper was, that declined being promoted to the post of Queen's Piper. Rick Swinn found the answer in Scottish Life, Summer 2008 ( Vol 13, #2), on page 22. Recently declassified British documents released in February '08 revealed that PM John Roe declined the Queen's offer in 1965, because it paid so little (665 British pounds), and required what he considered demeaning tasks, such as gardening, lighting fires, and waiting on dinner guests. His courageous stand caused the Queen to reevaluate the position, raise the pay, and abolish it's menial duties. Since then, her piper has kept his army status and pay, and become a member of the Royal household at Buckingham Palace. The Queen's Piper's duties now consist of playing outside her window for 15 minutes each morning, and accompanying her to state events and receptions. After his stand with the Queen, Roe fared less well. He had problems finding work as a piper, and eventually took a position as a security guard.
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