Exclusive figures have laid bare the enormous financial burden placed on the British public for former US President Donald Trump's contentious state visit in June 2019. The total cost to UK taxpayers reached a staggering £2.6 million, with policing operations alone consuming the vast majority of this expenditure.
The Metropolitan Police bore the heaviest load, spending approximately £2.4 million on securing the high-profile visit. This massive allocation covered officer overtime, specialised security details, and comprehensive logistical planning for the protection of the controversial leader.
Breaking Down the Multi-Million Pound Bill
According to detailed breakdowns obtained through Freedom of Information requests:
- Metropolitan Police security operations: £2,397,000
- Foreign Office coordination and hosting costs: £181,000
- Additional departmental expenses bringing total to £2.6 million
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed these figures, highlighting the significant resources dedicated to what remains one of the most controversial state visits in recent British history.
A Visit Mired in Controversy
Mr. Trump's June 2019 visit was marked by widespread protests and political tension. Large demonstrations took place across London, with protesters flying a giant 'Trump Baby' blimp near Parliament as a symbol of their opposition to the president's policies and rhetoric.
The visit also featured traditional pomp and ceremony, including a state banquet hosted by the Queen at Buckingham Palace. However, the lavish events were overshadowed by criticism from opposition politicians and public figures questioning the appropriateness of rolling out the red carpet for the controversial leader.
Then-Prime Minister Theresa May had initially extended the invitation for a full state visit in 2017, a move that sparked immediate controversy given Mr. Trump's travel ban targeting several Muslim-majority countries and his inflammatory comments about British society.
The Ongoing Debate Over Diplomatic Spending
These revelations have reignited debates about the appropriate level of spending on diplomatic engagements, particularly for controversial figures. Transparency advocates argue that taxpayers deserve full disclosure about how their money is allocated for high-profile visits.
The substantial cost of Mr. Trump's protection detail reflects the complex security challenges presented by visits from polarising world leaders. The Metropolitan Police's enormous expenditure demonstrates the extensive resources required to manage both the physical security requirements and the large-scale public protests that such visits can generate.
As the UK continues to host international leaders and diplomatic events, these figures serve as a stark reminder of the hidden costs behind high-profile state visits and the ongoing balancing act between diplomatic relations and fiscal responsibility.
