Will Donald Trump Have a £10 Million Security Cordon During His UK Visit?

Donald Trump's upcoming state visit to the UK, from 17 to 19 September, will be accompanied by a significant security operation expected to cost taxpayers around £10 million. This three-day trip, which will see the US President and First Lady hosted by King Charles at Windsor Castle, includes a ceremonial welcome and a state banquet. The event will also coincide with protests against the visit, highlighting the polarising figure that Trump remains in the UK.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The security operation for Trump's state visit is estimated to cost at least £10 million.
• Drones will monitor the airspace over Windsor during the three-day event.
• A national demonstration, "Trump Not Welcome," is planned for the first day of the visit.
• Trump's security will involve a collaboration between the US Secret Service and UK police forces.
• This is Trump's second state visit to the UK, following his 2019 trip.

Overview of the State Visit

Donald Trump is set to make his second state visit to the UK, a historic event underscored by the unique challenges and considerations that accompany a sitting US president. The visit will be marked by a series of high-profile engagements and extensive security measures designed to ensure the safety of both the President and the public. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will be welcomed at Windsor Castle, where they will partake in ceremonial activities reflective of the UK's royal traditions.

Security Measures in Place

In anticipation of the visit, UK authorities are preparing for an extensive security operation. Security expert Will Geddes has noted that the operation for Trump will be more significant than that of typical visiting heads of state. The total estimated cost of £10 million will cover extensive planning, coordination, and the deployment of police officers.

The Role of Drones

One of the standout features of this security operation will be the use of drones, which will patrol the airspace over Windsor. The police have implemented a temporary airspace restriction from 16 to 18 September, prohibiting non-police drones and smaller aircraft from flying in the area. This is part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure that no unapproved aerial activity occurs during the visit.

Inspector Matthew Wilkinson, the airspace bronze commander, explained that the drones will act as an "eye in the sky," monitoring the situation in real-time. Equipped with the DJIM 30T model, these drones can reach altitudes of up to 120 metres (approximately 400 feet) and are capable of flying for 30 minutes at a time, with a seamless replacement strategy to maintain constant aerial coverage.

Public Response and Protests

While Trump’s visit will feature high-profile royal engagements, it is also expected to attract significant public opposition. A national demonstration, branded “Trump Not Welcome,” is planned for the first day of the visit and is likely to draw participants from various campaign groups. These protests reflect the divisive opinions surrounding Trump and his policies, both in the US and the UK.

Historical Context of Trump's Visits

This upcoming visit marks Trump's second official trip to the UK, the first being in June 2019, during which he faced extensive protests and public opposition. His previous visit cost the Metropolitan Police £3.5 million and involved the deployment of over 6,300 officers. The scale and intensity of security measures during both visits underline the complexities involved in hosting a figure as polarising as Trump.

Collaboration with UK Security Forces

The US Secret Service, responsible for Trump's protection, will work alongside the Royal and Specialist Protection team of the Metropolitan Police. This collaboration aims to ensure that all security protocols are adhered to and that both the US and UK’s interests are safeguarded during the visit. Geddes noted that this partnership is crucial, given the scale of the operation and the potential threats involved.

Implications for Local Businesses and Communities

Insp Wilkinson has highlighted the importance of communication with local businesses and communities in Windsor. The police are engaging with various stakeholders, including drone enthusiasts and gliding schools, to ensure that the public is aware of the restrictions and the reasons behind them. This proactive approach aims to mitigate any disruptions to local life during the state visit.

Looking Ahead

As the date of Trump's visit approaches, the focus will be on ensuring both security and public safety while managing the various engagements planned for the President. The combination of high-level meetings, royal ceremonies, and public protests will keep the spotlight on Trump's relationship with the UK and the broader implications of his policies.

Conclusion

Donald Trump's state visit to the UK is poised to be a complex event marked by significant security measures and public scrutiny. As preparations continue, both the authorities and the public are gearing up for what promises to be a historic occasion. While Trump's visit may foster diplomatic discussions, it also invites a broader debate about his legacy and the UK's relationship with the United States.

FAQs

What is the estimated cost of security for Trump's state visit to the UK?

The estimated cost for security during Donald Trump's state visit to the UK is around £10 million, reflecting the extensive measures required to ensure safety during the event.

When will Trump’s state visit take place?

Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK is scheduled for 17 to 19 September, featuring various royal engagements and a state banquet at Windsor Castle.

Will there be protests during Trump's visit?

Yes, a national demonstration under the banner "Trump Not Welcome" is planned for the first day of the visit, alongside other protests in Windsor.

What role will drones play in the security operation?

Drones will be used to monitor the airspace over Windsor during Trump's visit, providing real-time surveillance and ensuring that no unauthorised aerial activity occurs.

How does this visit compare to Trump’s previous visit in 2019?

This visit is expected to involve even greater security measures than Trump's 2019 visit, which already saw significant public protests and cost the Metropolitan Police £3.5 million.