Downing Street, Political street in Westminster, United Kingdom.
Downing Street is a short road in Westminster that houses the official residence of the British Prime Minister. The brick-fronted terraced houses appear modest from the outside while government offices and meeting rooms lie behind the facades.
A diplomat purchased the land in the 17th century and built the row of houses as a speculative venture. King George II offered Number 10 to the First Lord of the Treasury in 1735 as an official residence.
Photographers gather at the black gate while television cameras often line up to record official announcements and arrivals. The famous door of Number 10 appears in news broadcasts around the world whenever major decisions are made.
Visitors can only view the road from a distance at the end of Whitehall since access has been closed off since the 1980s. Police officers guard the entrance around the clock and check anyone wishing to pass through the gate.
The original windows cannot be opened from inside because they were sealed during renovations. Cables and wiring run through the old structures after technicians installed modern communication systems into the historic walls.
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