Ed Davey calls for King’s US state visit to be cancelled after Trump’s criticism of Starmer
Ed Davey has called for the King’s state visit to the US to be canceled after Donald Trump made further criticism of Britain’s response to the outbreak of war in the Middle East.
The US president’s latest outburst has raised questions about King Charles’ planned state visit to the US in April, amid a widening rift in the so-called special relationship.
The Liberal Democrat leader said Mr Trump should not be allowed “another major diplomatic coup” after launching what he called an “illegal war” against Iran.
“Keir Starmer should advise the King that his planned visit to the US in April should be cancelled,” he said.
“It is clear that this visit should not take place at a time when Trump has launched an illegal war that is devastating the Middle East and increasing energy bills for British families.
“Our King’s state visit would be seen as another major diplomatic coup for President Trump, so it should not be granted to someone who has repeatedly insulted and damaged our country.”
King Charles played a vital role in easing relations between the UK and Trump; The US president’s second state visit last year was seen as a great success.
The upcoming state visit will coincide with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the US declaration of independence from Britain; This is Queen Elizabeth II. It will be the first visit by a British monarch since Elizabeth accepted George W. Bush’s invitation in 2007.
But communities secretary Steve Reed hit out at Mr Davey’s suggestion, telling the BBC: “I don’t think it’s for Ed Davey to decide what the king should or shouldn’t do, and I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to comment on his arrangements.”
US president launches another attack on prime minister overnight, writing on Truth Social That no one needs the US to “participate in wars after we have already won them”.
Britain did not participate in the initial attacks on Iran, but has since allowed US forces to use British bases to launch defensive attacks.
Sir Keir has repeatedly said he stands by his decision and on Monday openly criticized the US president’s bombing campaign, telling parliament his government “does not believe in regime change from the sky”.
Despite the ongoing row, a Downing Street spokesman said the two leaders spoke on Sunday afternoon.
“The leaders began by discussing the latest situation in the Middle East and military cooperation between the UK and the US through the use of RAF bases to support the collective self-defense of partners in the region,” they said.
“The Prime Minister also shared his heartfelt condolences with President Trump and the American people following the deaths of six US soldiers.”
