Reps for Queen Elizabeth II have brushed off the shock that shook Britain earlier this week after Her Majesty placed her hand on the back of First Lady Michelle Obama and Mrs. O had the brazen audacity to return the gesture during The Obamas first trip to the UK on Wednesday.

Royal protocol dictates that no one ever touches the Queen, unless it’s a handshake; it’s never happened in her 57 years on the throne. But this time, there was no breach of protocol, says a Buckingham Palace press officer.

“It was a mutual and spontaneous display of affection and appreciation between the Queen and Michelle Obama,” said a statement from the Buckingham Palace Press Office. “The London Summit reception at Buckingham Palace was an informal occasion.”