Trump in UK ‘should expect to face protests’

US President Donald Trump has been told he should expect loud and peaceful protests if a summer visit to Britain materialises.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has repeatedly clashed with the American world leader since they were both elected almost two years ago, made the remark following reports Mr Trump has a UK visit in the pipeline.

Speaking to the Press Association at a St George’s Day event in Trafalgar Square, Mr Khan said the capital is a place which respects, embraces and celebrates diversity.

Asked whether he thinks there will be protests if the American president does come to Britain, Mr Khan said if it goes ahead Mr Trump will see a city where those from different backgrounds, religions and ethnicities get on very well with each other.

“I hope if he does come, he reflects on the difference good leadership can make,” he said.

“We have got a great history in our city of protests...we have got a great history in our city of bringing about change by protest, the key thing is for it to be lawful, for it to be peaceful.

“I have no doubt that if he does come, there will be some people who want to express their views loudly and peacefully to the president.”

Mr Khan also said how “the message should be loud and clear that we think it is wrong that anyone should be amplifying far right messages” or messages of hatred or division.

He added: “I was very disappointed to be honest that the leader of our closest ally was doing just that, and we shouldn’t be embarrassed to say to our best friend that we think they are wrong.”