UK plans Trump visit one step at a time: Avoiding stairs, slopes
Phobias and foibles of visiting dignitaries are often factored in, but officials in Whitehall preparing for a visit by President Donald Trump are taking it one step at a time: staircases, railings and slopes may be ruled out for the world’s most powerful man.
Trump’s visit has already caused some waves here. Indications are that he will come calling in October, though no dates have been finalised yet. Given Trump’s known phobia of steps, railings and slopes, officials are already discussing ways to keep him away from such pitfalls during the visit, The Sunday Times reported.
Trump, who has large business interests in Scotland, including a golf course, is expected to be honoured with a state dinner in Buckingham Palace. He is also likely to spend time in Queen Elizabeth’s Scottish retreat Balmoral. An official in step with arranging Trump’s visit told the paper: “I’ve heard this discussed in meetings about the state visit People want every thing to go smoothly. Trump won’t be able to avoid the stairs at the palace but they can plan things to minimise it.”
One of the most seen images of May’s visit to the US in January was of Trump holding her hand as they walked through a ramp in the White House. His dislike for steps and stairs has reportedly been raised in meetings to prepare for the visit.
The planned visit of the US president has raised hackles, given his comments such as parts of London were so radicalised that they were ‘no-go’ areas for the police