Donald Trump could conduct a state visit to UK in 2017, Downing Street confirms

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Downing Street has confirmed the Government is considering a state visit for Donald Trump after he is sworn in as the new US President.

A spokesperson from No 10 said officials are looking at a potential trip, which could mean a banquet is held in Mr Trump’s honour and that he stays at Buckingham Palace as the Queen’s guest.

Reports over the weekend suggested Mr Trump was being lined up for an invitation to meet the Queen next year, as ministers ponder how to cement the “special relationship” and strike a free trade deal with the United States.

Ms May’s official spokesperson said: “An invitation for a state visit is one of the things that is under consideration following the election of the new US President.”

The spokeswoman said that about two state visits are normally arranged each year, and that Mr Trump is under consideration as a potential guest during 2017.

She confirmed that any such visit would have to come after the new President is inaugurated on 20 January.

No details of the proposed itinerary have yet been revealed, but an event of this kind normally involves a ceremonial welcome and a banquet hosted by the Queen in honour of the visitor, who is often invited to stay at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.

Barack Obama made a state visit to the UK in April having been accorded the same honour in 2011.

An early visit to the UK from Mr Trump would also allow Theresa May to quash claims that Nigel Farage has closer links to the controversial tycoon, and that he should be used as a go-between by the Government.