LONDON: The British government yesterday defended its decision to offer US President Donald Trump a lavish state visit and an audience with the queen this year, defying protests outside parliament and dissent from legislators.
“In the light of America’s absolutely pivotal role we believe it entirely right that we should use all the tools at our disposal to build common ground with President Trump,” junior foreign minister Alan Duncan told parliament. He said Trump’s trip would go ahead as planned.
The visit has spurred 1.8 million people in Britain to sign a petition saying he should not be given a state visit because it could embarrass Queen Elizabeth.