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US President Donald Trump will likely be denied the privilege of addressing Britain’s Parliament during his upcoming state visit in September, marking a significant diplomatic departure from recent norms.
Unlike French President Emmanuel Macron, who delivered a speech to both houses just days ago, no formal request has been submitted to Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle for Trump to receive similar honors.
This decision follows strong opposition from Labour MPs like Kate Osborne, who called Trump’s comments on Ukraine, democracy, and equality “uncomfortable and worrying”.
Recess timing avoids awkward confrontation
The state visit is deliberately scheduled for mid-September when Parliament is in recess—a tactical solution to sidestep potential protests. Parliament breaks on September 16 for party conferences, resuming October 13, creating a natural excuse to omit the address.
Labour MP Osborne acknowledged this timing as a “diplomatic way” to avoid honoring Trump while sparing him public rejection. The scheduling also circumvents a repeat of 2019, when then-Speaker John Bercow blocked Trump from speaking. Former UK ambassador Lord Ricketts, who criticized Trump’s first visit for placing the Queen in a “difficult position,” endorsed this approach.
Trump’s itinerary may also lack traditional state visit grandeur. He is not expected to visit Buckingham Palace (under renovation) or enjoy a ceremonial carriage procession, elements that Macron retained.
Security concerns may confine him to Winfield House (the U.S. ambassador’s residence) instead of Windsor Castle, where Macron stayed. The scaled-back plans risk irritating Trump, who British officials note is “sensitive to perceived slights” and eager to outshine predecessors.
His enthusiasm for royalty remains undimmed, however; he recently called King Charles “a friend” and the visit “a fest”.
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