Talks have been held over giving US President Donald Trump the Freedom of the City of London during his state visit in September, according to a source. The proposal aims to allow the City of London Corporation to meet him and advocate for free trade while opposing tariffs.
The honour would also mark the UK receiving the first of the Trump trade deals, with tariffs on steel still uncertain. Trump would helicopter from Windsor Castle to the US ambassador's residence in Regent's Park for the ceremony.
However, the freedom applications subcommittee, chaired by Sir William Russell, has not been persuaded, with sources warning the award would be 'too controversial'. The corporation rarely gives the honour to government leaders and previously withdrew it from Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi.
Officially, the corporation stated that by convention, only heads of state or government who have served a minimum of seven years are eligible. Trump has not met this criterion. The last head of government awarded the honour was Baroness Margaret Thatcher after 10 years as prime minister.
The honour, first recorded in 1237, has never been awarded to a sitting US president. Dwight Eisenhower received it after World War II for his role as Allied commander-in-chief. A source said the City might change its mind if the government requests it, but no such request has been made.
Trump's state visit, the first second state visit for an individual, will take place from 17-19 September, including a state banquet hosted by the King and a stay at Windsor Castle.
