LONDON, Sept. 11 (Xinhuanet) -- It has been claimed that Al Qaeda terrorists plotted to assassinate Tony and Cherie Blair during the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations, Sky news reported on Sunday.

    The plot has been revealed by the former Metropolitan police commissioner Lord Stevens, in his memoirs, being serialized in the News of the World.

    Lord Stevens, who was in charge of security at the ceremony in June 2002, also describes former home secretary David Blunkett as a lying backstabbing bully.

    The ex-head of Scotland Yard ordered a covert operation to protect the prime minister and his wife from the sniper attack during the June 2002 parade to commemorate the Queen's 50 years on the throne.

    The prime minister was warned of the plot but was "absolutely unfazed" and rejected suggestions he should wear a bullet-proof vest.

    "Covertly-armed" officers surrounded the couple at the event, but Lord Stevens said he still felt "acutely nervous" as dignitaries gathered near Buckingham Palace.

    "I was constantly scanning faces in the crowd for signs of trouble and thinking, I hope to God nothing comes from somewhere."

    Neither the Downing Street or Scotland Yard has commented on the claim. Enditem