Lib Dem leader, Ed Davey, clarified that his decision to skip a state banquet for US President Donald Trump is not intended as a sign of disrespect towards the monarchy. Ed Davey announced his refusal to attend the dinner marking the US President’s upcoming state visit to the UK later this month. In an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Ed Davey emphasized his deep respect for the King and the monarchy in general, highlighting that his decision was made after careful consideration and prayer with his wife, Emily.
The politician, who attends St Andrew’s and St Mark’s church regularly, spoke about the importance of his Christian faith in influencing his political decisions. His stance echoes previous refusals by political figures, including Jeremy Corbyn, Sir Vince Cable, Ian Blackford, and John Bercow, to attend Mr. Trump’s state banquets in 2019.
President Trump’s forthcoming UK visit, scheduled from September 17 to 19, marks his second state visit, a rare honor typically reserved for monarchs. The absence of an address to Parliament during the visit is noted due to the non-sitting of the Lords and Commons at that time. The Tories criticized Ed Davey’s decision, calling it a disrespectful act towards the King, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties with the US as a key ally and economic partner.
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