Theresa May’s visit to Washington to meet President Trump last week was seen, before it happened, as being beneficial to both sides. The Prime Minister’s allies in government thought this was an excellent opportunity for May to show the new President how it was done – and to send a message to the world that Britain really matters.
But today things look a little less advantageous for the Prime Minister. That her visit was swiftly followed by Trump signing an executive order which halts all refugee admissions and temporarily bans people from seven countries has put the Prime Minister under pressure to criticise the man whose hand she ended up holding. Initially she didn’t – and was heckled by the press when dodging their questions on the matter. Overnight, Downing Street issued a clarification saying she ‘does not agree’ with the ban and will raise the matter with the US if it does turn out to affect British citizens.
But the visit has created further problems, which is that Trump now has a State visit to Britain which will involve him addressing Parliament.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in