As former U.S. President Donald Trump prepares for a possible second state visit to the UK in September, a growing number of British MPs and peers are urging the government to bar him from speaking in the Palace of Westminster. The calls come after Trump expressed his anticipation of a historic trip to the UK, with Buckingham Palace reportedly working on scheduling his stay.
However, some political figures are pushing back, deeming it inappropriate for Trump to deliver a speech in the heart of British democracy—especially in light of his controversial remarks and policies. Several MPs and members of the House of Lords are voicing their opposition to his address in the Parliament, following the precedent set by leaders like Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Ronald Reagan, who were all invited to speak during their respective visits.
Lord Speaker John McFall received a formal communication urging him to decline any suggestion that Trump be invited to address both Houses of Parliament. The letter, reported by The Times, referenced Trump’s “attitude towards and comments about the UK, parliamentary democracy, the NATO alliance, and Ukraine.” This opposition is spearheaded by Scottish peer, George Foulkes, a prominent Labour politician who served as a minister during Tony Blair’s government.
Foulkes, who has long been critical of Trump’s stance on global issues, remarked: “While the government must engage with all world leaders, Parliament should not roll out the welcome mat for someone who consistently undermines democracy and the rule of law.” He also expressed concern over Trump’s failure to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a stance that has united most UK political parties in condemnation.
The debate has grown in intensity, with Labour MP Kate Osborne joining the fray. In a letter to Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle, Osborne echoed previous calls from former Speaker John Bercow, urging that it would be “inappropriate” for Trump to address Parliament. She has yet to comment further, but her support of the motion adds weight to the growing opposition against Trump’s presence in the prestigious building.
Meanwhile, the UK government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has been planning the logistics of Trump’s potential second visit. The president’s last trip to the UK saw him meet with the British royal family and receive a personal invitation from King Charles during a meeting at the White House. However, reports indicate that the venue for Trump’s upcoming trip will likely shift to Windsor Castle, with Balmoral and Dumfries House—two previously considered locations—now on the backburner.
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In speaking to the press, Trump appeared excited about his upcoming visit, calling it a “truly historic” event. “They’re going to do a second… it’s a fest, and it’s beautiful, and it’s the first time it’s ever happened to one person,” he said. He also emphasized his friendship with King Charles, highlighting the mutual respect between the two.
But despite his enthusiasm, the suggestion of a parliamentary address continues to spark controversy. Critics argue that it would be improper for a leader who has repeatedly flouted democratic norms and failed to condemn international aggression to speak to UK lawmakers. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Trump’s visit will include a speech at the UK Parliament or whether his detractors will succeed in blocking it.
