The controversial visit of former US President Donald Trump to his Scottish golf resort this spring landed local police with a staggering security bill exceeding £2.4 million, The Independent can reveal.
Following a freedom of information request, Police Scotland disclosed the immense cost of policing Mr. Trump's stay at the Trump Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire in May 2024. The final tally reached a jaw-dropping £2,414,802.24—a sum that will be entirely absorbed by the Scottish public purse.
Behind the Multi-Million Pound Security Operation
The colossal figure covers a wide range of operational expenses accrued during the high-profile visit. This includes thousands of hours of officer overtime, specialised personnel deployments, and the significant logistical overhead required to secure the area around the luxury resort and protect the former commander-in-chief.
Unlike some other nations that may seek cost recovery for protecting visiting dignitaries, a spokesperson for the Scottish force confirmed there is "no mechanism" to invoice the Trump Organisation or the US government for these policing services. This policy places the full financial burden squarely on Scottish taxpayers.
A Political Storm Brews Over Funding
The revelation has ignited a fierce political debate, with critics lambasting the use of public funds for a private visit by a foreign political figure. The substantial cost comes at a time when Police Scotland faces well-documented budgetary pressures and scrutiny over resource allocation.
This visit is not the first time Mr. Trump's trips to his Scottish properties have sparked controversy over policing costs. Previous excursions to both Turnberry and his Aberdeenshire golf course have also required massive and costly police operations, drawing similar criticism from politicians and public alike.
The latest multi-million pound bill is sure to intensify questions about the financial impact of hosting international figures with complex security needs and who continues to be a deeply divisive presence on the global political stage.
