Donald Trump visit: Queen welcomes President Trump at State Banquet

 - PA
- PA

The Queen has praised the enduring alliance between the UK and US, as President Trump called her Majesty "the spirit of dignity, duty, and patriotism that beats proudly in every British heart."

Mr Trump and the First Lady Melania were greeted by the monarch at Buckingham Palace on the first day of their three-day state visit.

The ceremonial welcome, which included a private lunch and a guided tour of the Royal Collection, was played out against a fiery backdrop after Mr Trump and London Mayor Sadiq Khan had traded blows.

The president wasted no time in getting his state visit started, unleashing a flurry of tweets criticising London Mayor Sadiq Khan before Air Force One had even touched down.

Tweeting while still in the air over Stansted Airport, he called Mr Khan a "stone cold loser", saying he had done a "terrible job" as mayor after the mayor on Sunday described the president as "just one of the most egregious examples of a growing global threat" and compared the language he has used to that of the "fascists of the 20th century".

But The president's mood appeared to mellow over the day, and this evening he said: "London part of trip is going really well. The Queen and the entire Royal family have been fantastic. The relationship with the United Kingdom is very strong.

He added that "a big trade deal is possible once U.K gets rid of the shackles" of the EU.

"Haven’t seen any protests yet, but I’m sure the Fake News will be working hard to find them. Great love all around," he said.

Last night, at a state banquet, The Queen said: "Mr President, as we look to the future, I am confident that our common values and shared interests will continue to unite us.

"Tonight we celebrate an alliance that has helped to ensure the safety and prosperity of both our peoples for decades, and which I believe will endure for many years to come."

President Trump lavished praise on The Queen, saying: "This evening, we thank God for the brave sons of the United Kingdom and the United States who defeated the Nazis and the Nazi regime and liberated millions from tyranny.

"The bond between our nations was forever sealed in that great crusade.

"As we honour our shared victory and heritage, we affirm the common values that will unite us long into future - freedom, sovereignty, self-determination, the rule of law and reverence for the rights given to us by almighty God.

"From the Second World War to today, Her Majesty has stood as a constant symbol of these priceless traditions.

"She has embodied the spirit of dignity, duty, and patriotism that beats proudly in every British heart.

"On behalf of all Americans, I offer a toast to the eternal friendship of our people, the vitality of our nations and to the long-cherished and truly remarkable reign of Her Majesty, the Queen. Thank you."

Meanwhile, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has followed up his boycott of tonight's State Dinner with an announcement that he will attend the anti-Trump march in London and will speak on stage.

Mr Trump and his wife Melania landed in Essex just before 9am on Monday as it emerged he would no longer have a lengthy bilateral meeting with Theresa May.

The US president had been scheduled for a private sit down with Mrs May but this has now been taken off the agenda.

It has been suggested that he may however find the time to meet with Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage.

The First Couple visited Westminster Abbey, where a wreath was laid for the Unknown Warrior and then headed to Clarence House for tea with Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

They will also attend the dinner hosted by the Queen tonight - as will other government ministers including leadership contenders Jeremy Hunt and Michael Gove.

The US president said he expected his three-day state visit to be "very important" and "very interesting" as he left the White House on Sunday evening.

11:19PM

State banquet over

CBS's Mark Knoller reports that the state banquet has finished, and the First Couple have returned to Winfield House.

And here is Lord Hague's take on the state visit.

 

11:00PM

On the agenda for tomorrow

President Trump will start tomorrow with a business breakfast at St James' Palace at 9am.

The gathering is also due to be attended by the Duke of York, Chancellor Philip Hammond and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo, US secretary of the treasury Steven Mnuchin and the president's daughter and advisor Ivanka Trump are expected at the meeting.

The meeting will bring together ten leading companies, five from each nation, to discuss business opportunities and look at sectors where expanding links would benefit both sides.

Discussions are expected to focus on research, development and innovation, investment in infrastructure, and the scope for closer partnership in regulation and financial services.

Chief executives and senior representatives from BAE Systems, GlaxoSmithKline, National Grid, Barclays, Reckitt Benckiser, JP Morgan, Lockheed Martin, Goldman Sachs International, Bechtel and Splunk are due to attend.

The President and Mrs Trump will then visit 10 Downing Street to hold talks with the PM but they will not have a private meeting.

Following lunch together, the President and Prime Minister will host a press conference.

Thousands of protesters are expected to be on the streets of London at an anti-Trump rally where Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has said he will address the crowds.

In the evening, the President and Mrs Trump will host a return dinner at Winfield House, the residence of the Ambassador of the United States of America. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will attend the dinner on behalf of the Queen.

10:32PM

Gifts revealed

Theresa May will give Donald Trump a copy of one of the most significant documents in the transatlantic "special relationship" to mark his state visit.

The Prime Minister and her husband Philip will present Mr Trump with a framed typescript draft of the 1941 Atlantic Charter, agreed by president Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, setting out their vision for the post-war world.

First Lady Melania Trump will be given a bespoke tea set from designer Emma Bridgewater.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said the Atlantic Charter was "one of the first steps towards the formation of the United Nations".

The spokesman said: "It's a copy of Churchill's personal draft of August 12, 1941, with his amendments in red pencil.

"There were no further amendments made and Churchill kept the draft on his wall as a reminder.

"A copy has kindly been provided with the consent of Winston Churchill's family."

The First Lady will receive a "bespoke Number 10 tea set".

Asked why Mr Trump was being given a historically significant gift, while his wife was being given a tea set, the Prime Minister's spokesman said: "I think they are both gifts which have been carefully chosen."

The tea set was "a memento of a visit to Number 10 as part of what we hope will be a successful state visit".

During the visit to Downing Street, the Mays and Trumps will view the Sussex Declaration - a rare copy of the American Declaration of Independence on sheepskin parchment.

The document, dating back to the 1780s, is one of only two ceremonial manuscript copies written on parchment, the other is in the US National Archives in Washington.

The two countries are to explore options for the document, on loan from the West Sussex Record Office, to form part of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, potentially by allowing it to travel to the US.

The US visitors will be treated to a three-course lunch in the state dining room at Number 10, consisting of Paignton harbour crab, turnip and chilled crab bisque, followed by dry-aged Lake District beef fillet, aubergine and miso puree, roasted garlic and ceps with an Eton mess with peach for dessert.

While the official bilateral meetings between the US and UK delegations take place, Mr May and Mrs Trump will take tea together in the Terracotta Room, receive a tour of the state rooms from historian Sir Anthony Seldon, and attend a garden party for families of staff from No 10 and the US Embassy in London.

10:10PM

More pictures from the banquet

Queen Elizabeth II and U.S. President Donald Trump arrive through the East Gallery for a State Banquet at Buckingham Palace - Credit: Victoria Jones- WPA Pool
Queen Elizabeth II and U.S. President Donald Trump arrive through the East Gallery for a State Banquet at Buckingham Palace Credit: Victoria Jones- WPA Pool
 Prince Charles walks with US First Lady Melania Trump, followed by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and US Ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson - Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
Prince Charles walks with US First Lady Melania Trump, followed by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and US Ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
The Duchess of Cambridge (L) walks with US Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin - Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
The Duchess of Cambridge walks with US Secretary of Treasury Steven Mnuchin Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
Queen Elizabeth II (R) laughs with US President Donald Trump - Credit:  Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP
Queen Elizabeth II laughs with US President Donald Trump Credit: Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP
Prime Minister Theresa May (L) walks with Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge  - Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
Prime Minister Theresa May walks with Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and his wife Lucia arrive  - Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP
Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and his wife Lucia arrive Credit: Victoria Jones / POOL / AFP

 

9:40PM

Those speeches in full

The Queen praising UK-US relations.

President Trump paying tribute to Her Majesty the Queen.

 

9:26PM

4000 pieces of silver, a 75ft table and £1,400 wine

Here's a look at the Buckingham Palace state banquet for US President Donald Trump in numbers:

1 hour and 15 minutes - Time it takes to serve the banquet

1 hour and 30 minutes - Time it takes to clear away afterwards

4 - Days taken to lay the table

6 - Glasses at each place setting

170 - Guests

8 - Members of the Trump family at the dinner - Mr Trump, First Lady Melania, Ivanka Trump, her husband Jared Kushner, Donald Trump Jr, Eric Trump and his wife Lara, and Tiffany Trump.

16 - Members of the royal family present

18in - the space for each place setting

23 - Floral displays around the banquet table

75ft - Length of the table

100 - Ivory candles in the ballroom

1020 - Glasses used

£1,400 - Cost of a bottle of Chateau Lafite Rothschild 1900, 1er Cru Classe, Pauillac which is among the drinks being served

4,000 - Pieces in the silver gilt George IV's Grand Service dinner set, including 14 tureens, 20 sauce tureens, 140 dishes, 288 dinner plates, 118 salts, 12 ice pails, 12 mirrored plateaux, 58 dessert stands and centrepieces, and 107 candelabras.

US President Donald Trump and Queen Elizabeth II during the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace - Credit: Dominic Lipinski/PA
The Queen reacted very positively to President Trump's warm speech Credit: Dominic Lipinski/PA

 

9:02PM

President Trump responds

He thanks the Queen for her kind hospitality and then causes a ripple of laughter when he also thanks her for the good weather.

President Trump pays tribute to Prince Philip's service in the navy in WWII.

He talks about the Queen's father, King George VI, who gave a rousing speech during the war.

The Queen, according to Trump, embodies freedom, sovereignty, self determination and the rule of law.

He too proposes a toast to "the truly remarkable reign of Her Majesty the Queen" who has a beaming grin.

Mr Trump appeared to breach accepted royal protocol by touching the Queen on the back as she rose for his toast.

Mr Trump briefly and gently put his left hand out behind the monarch.

The Queen seemed unperturbed. Mr Trump had just delivered a glowing tribute to his host.

God Save the Queen is played and the guests sit down to eat.

8:57PM

The Queen's speech

The Queen tells President Trump that she is "so glad we have another opportunity" to meet again and demonstrate the importance of the relationship between the UK and US.

In her speech, the Queen said: "As we face the new challenges of the 21st Century, the anniversary of D-Day reminds us of all that our countries have achieved together," she said

"After the shared sacrifices of the Second World War, Britain and the United States worked with other allies to build an assembly of international institutions, to ensure that the horrors of conflict would never be repeated.

"While the world has changed, we are forever mindful of the original purpose of these structures: nations working together to safeguard a hard-won peace."

She talks of the efforts made by British and American troops at D-Day, mentioning that President Trump will visit Portsmouth tomorrow.

Her Majesty then talks about her first state visit to the US, when she was invited by President Eisenhower.

A toast is proposed and the American national anthem is played.

President Trump takes a sip from his glass.

8:45PM

The first pictures are in

Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II has arrived at the state banquet with Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump joined them for a formal photocall.

The Queen joined by Donald Trump and Melania, Prince Charles and Camilla - Credit: Jeff Gilbert
The State banquet has begun Credit: Jeff Gilbert

 

8:35PM

Who has been invited to the state banquet?

The Trump dynasty is mingling with the royal family at the lavish state banquet, where industry chiefs rather than Hollywood stars have gathered to honour US President Donald Trump.

In the Buckingham Palace ballroom with its six glittering chandeliers, the vast white-clothed horse shoe-shaped table has been laden with George IV's silver gilt Grand Service dinner set.

Small white place cards embossed with a golden royal crest and edged in gold are at each setting, to show where the 170 guests are to be seated.

As is tradition, the Queen, who does not have her own place card, is at the head of the table, with the Prince of Wales on her left and Mr Trump on her right.

Joining Mr Trump and First Lady Melania at the white tie and tiara event are four of Mr Trump's five children - Ivanka Trump, with her husband Jared Kushner, Donald Trump Jr, Eric Trump and his wife Lara, and Tiffany Trump.

Sixteen members of the royal family are at the dinner - the Queen, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Duke of York, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, the Princess Royal, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Kent, Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and Princess Alexandra.

The Duke of Sussex, who was at the private lunch earlier, will be noticeably absent, as will the Duchess of Sussex who is on maternity leave, looking after their four-week-old son Archie.

Charles, who had tea with Mr Trump earlier on Monday, is seated next to Mrs Trump, while Camilla is on the other side of the president and next to US ambassador Woody Johnson.

William is between the Prime Minister Theresa May and Mr Johnson's wife Suzanne Ircha. Kate is seated between US secretary of the treasury Steven Mnuchin and the Lord Mayor of London Peter Estlin.

The president's daughter and adviser Ivanka is seated between the Countess of Wessex and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, while Ivanka's husband Mr Kushner, a senior adviser to Mr Trump, has the Princess Royal on his right and Mark Carney, governor of the Bank of England, on his left.

Among the captains of industry invited are Swedish businessman and chairman of AstraZeneca Leif Johansson, chairman of BP Helge Lund, Balfour Beatty chief executive Leo Quinn, GlaxoSmithKline boss Emma Walmsley, Universal Music Group chairman Sir Lucian Grainge and Royal Dutch Shell chief executive Ben van Beurden, as well as Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick.

Politicians at the event include Mrs May and her husband Philip , Cabinet Office minister and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster David Lidington, Chancellor Philip Hammond, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt, Mr Fox, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, Leader of the House of Lords Baroness Evans and Europe and Americas minister Sir Alan Duncan.

Tiffany Trump was seated between HSBC chairman Mark Tucker and the Queen's top aide, her private secretary Edward Young, while Lara Trump, Mr Trump's daughter-in-law, was between Lord Hague and Mr van Beurden.

8:30PM

What's on the menu?

Donald Trump will dine on a menu of Windsor lamb and strawberry sable at the Queen's state banquet.

In the opulent Buckingham Palace ballroom, the US president, First Lady Melania Trump and four of Mr Trump's five children are first being treated to steamed fillet of halibut with watercress mousse, asparagus spears and chervil sauce.

This will be followed by saddle of new season Windsor lamb, with herb stuffing, spring vegetables and port sauce.

The menu will have been chosen from four possible alternatives presented to the Queen by royal chefs.

Preparations in the kitchens of Buckingham Palace begin as close to the event as possible - with every dish handmade from scratch.

Mr Trump is known to have a sweet tooth so is likely to enjoy the pudding - strawberry sable with lemon verbena cream - made of crisp biscuits, smooth pastry cream and fresh strawberries.

Here is the menu:

- Steamed fillet of halibut with watercress mousse, asparagus spears and chervil sauce.

- Saddle of new season Windsor lamb with herb stuffing, spring vegetables, port sauce.

- Strawberry sable with lemon verbena cream.

- Selection of assorted fresh fruits.

- Coffee and petit fours.

7:59PM

President Trump arrives at Buckingham Palace

The president and his wife flew in on Marine One slightly behind schedule.

Our reporter on the ground captured his arrival.

 

7:43PM

While we wait for The president to leave Winfield House

Our video team have put this together, on a dignified Donald Trump showing that he has learned royal protocol, after being accused of ignorance on his last visit to the UK.

 

7:23PM

A first look at the Banquet Hall

All the pomp and pageantry a visiting president could wish for. This picture is from ITV's Chris Ship.

 

7:20PM

Trump turns his attention to Mexico and Venezuela

Ahead of the State Banquet tonight, President Trump has been back on Twitter, speaking about Russia, Venezuela and Mexico.

"Russia has informed us that they have removed most of their people from Venezuela," he tweeted, after previously saying he didn't know of any Russian's in the country.

He followed up the first message with another one aimed at Mexico.

"As a sign of good faith, Mexico should immediately stop the flow of people and drugs through their country and to our Southern Border. They can do it if they want!" he said.

6:46PM

President Trump is tweeting again

The president is enjoying himself.

He has addressed the Royal Family, protesters, the Fake News Media and a post-Brexit trade deal in two quick-fire tweets.

He has written: "London part of trip is going really well. The Queen and the entire Royal family have been fantastic. The relationship with the United Kingdom is very strong. Tremendous crowds of well wishers and people that love our Country. Haven’t seen any protests yet, but I’m sure the Fake News will be working hard to find them. Great love all around. Also, big Trade Deal is possible once U.K. gets rid of the shackles. Already starting to talk!"

A serious point here is that outside Buckingham Palace there were around 100 protesters carrying signs and shouting anti-Trump chants. While nowhere near the size of the demonstrations planned for tomorrow - they did happen - and the President did drive past them.

Anti-Trump demonstrators hold placards as they protest outside of Buckingham Palace - Credit: Tolga Akmen / AFP
Anti-Trump demonstrators hold placards as they protest outside of Buckingham Palace Credit: Tolga Akmen / AFP

 

6:43PM

The plan for this evening

In around 20 minutes, Donald Trump and his wife will travel to Buckingham Palace for the State Banquet, hosted by the Queen.

They will have a formal group photograph and then the speeches will commence at around 19:20.

Earlier, a pizza delivery driver was spotted at the gates of Buckingham Palace, but waiting reporters were assured that the food was for security staff, rather than royalty.

Known to enjoy fast food, President Trump purchased Wendy's for a ceremony honoring the 2018 College Football Playoff National Champion Clemson Tigers in the State Dining Room of the White House.

We will be publishing updates, including the menu and who is sitting where, as soon as we get them.

President Trump purchased Wendy's for a ceremony honoring the 2018 College Football Playoff National Champion Clemson Tigers - Credit: SAUL LOEB / AFP
President Trump purchased Wendy's for a ceremony honoring the 2018 College Football Playoff National Champion Clemson Tigers Credit: SAUL LOEB / AFP

 

5:57PM

Protesters gathering outside Buckingham Palace

Our man on the ground is in the thick of it.

The Metropolitan Police said it had "a very experienced command team" leading the operation as the force geared up to deal with the visit itself and expected protests.

Last year, almost 10,000 officers were deployed for Mr Trump's trip to the UK, with nearly every force in the country providing staff to support the operation.

Supporters of Human Rights charity Amnesty have unfurled giant banners from Vauxhall Bridge, facing the US embassy, saying "Resist sexism", "Resist racism", "Resist hate", "Resist cruelty" and "Resist Trump".

Tomorrow, Jeremy Corybn will attend and speak at an anti-Trump demonstration and will be joined by shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry.

When Mr Trump's state visit was announced earlier this year, Simon Kempton from the Police Federation warned officers were already "run ragged" with extra work.

The 2018 Trump visit racked up an estimated bill of £18 million.

5:41PM

The secrets to the First Couple's grooming routines

President Trump and his wife Melania have been in the public eye for decades, but how does the 72-year-old control his hair and what can women over 40 learn from the First Lady's beauty regime?

Guy Kelly and Francesca Shillcock have the answers.

5:13PM

Jeremy Corbyn to attend anti-Trump protest

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has followed up his boycott of tonight's State Dinner with an announcement that he will attend the anti-Trump march in London and will speak on stage.

This comes after Sadiq Khan and President Trump traded blows on Twitter about the London Mayor's record on crime in the capital. Trump called Khan: "a stone cold loser who should focus on crime in London, not me."

Our Chief Political Correspondent Christopher Hope tells us why this is not a good look for the Labour leader.

 

4:58PM

Time to relax

The President and First Lady have returned to Buckingham Palace from Clarence House, and are now in Marine One on their way to Winfield House.

They will have a couple of hours to rest and relax after an incredibly busy day so far.

They landed just before 9am at Stansted and have visited Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Clarence House and Winfield House.

The rest of the First family are staying in the Corinthia Hotel, which has proved a logistical headache for the American secret service. They've tweeted a photo of one of their agents on the lawn at Buckingham Palace. Secret not quite the operative word.

And Ivanka Trump, advisor to her father on job creation and economic empowerment, workforce development & entrepreneurship, has described meeting the Queen as an "incredible honor".

 

4:35PM

The first pictures from inside Clarence House

Prince Charles held court inside Clarence House as he and the Duchess of Cambridge posed for photographs with the President and First Lady.

Upon entering the room, Prince Charles picked up a flashbulb that had been dropped by an American photographer and exclaimed that it looked like an ice cream.

Mr and Mrs Trump shook hands with officials including the Queen's equerry and Michael Vernon, controller at the Lord Chamberlain's Office.

US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania (left) at Clarence House in London to take tea with the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall on the first day of his state visit to the UK - Credit: Victoria Jones/PA
Prince Charles holds court at Clarence House Credit: Victoria Jones/PA

 

4:12PM

Trump heads to Clarence house for tea with Prince Charles

Donald Trump has joined the Prince of Wales for tea at Clarence House. Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall greeted Mr Trump and First Lady Melania in the garden as they arrived for afternoon tea at their official residence.

Camilla wore a beige and white spotted silk dress by Fiona Clare for the occasion.

The future King earlier invited President Trump to inspect the guard of honour at Buckingham Palace, and will tomorrow attend a dinner at Winfield House,  the US ambassador's residence in Regent's Park.

 

3:58PM

Harry shows Ivanka around Buckingham Palace

There appeared to be no ill-feeling between the Trumps and the Duke of Sussex.

Prince Harry allowed his grandmother to take the lead as she showed Donald Trump and the First Lady around Buckingham Palace's Royal Collection.

At the back of the room, he guided Ivanka Trump around the picture gallery.

Ivanka Trump and Prince Harry view displays of US items of the Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace  - Credit: Mendel Ngan/AFP
Ivanka Trump and Prince Harry view displays of US items of the Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace Credit: Mendel Ngan/AFP

Headlines overnight highlighted Mr Trump's comments about the Duchess of Sussex, when he was confronted with comments she had made during the race to the White House in 2016.

He said he didn't realise Meghan Markle was "nasty", but insisted it was not a malicious comment.

It appeared to have been taken that way by Prince Harry, who showed no signs of hostility inside Buckingham Palace.

3:43PM

Labour MP 'saddened' by 'hysterical' response of colleagues

Labour MP Kate Hoey said she is "saddened" by the "hysterical" response from some of her party colleagues to the arrival of US President Donald Trump.

"Saddened by the hysterical reaction to visit of the President of the United States by some Labour colleagues," she tweeted.

"A democratically elected President of our closest ally should be welcomed whether we agree with his views or not.

"HM The Queen shows the world the nature of the UK."

3:41PM

The American artefacts Trump was shown

The Royal Family's official Twitter account has revealed details of what Donald Trump was shown inside Buckingham Palace's picture gallery.

3:24PM

Wreath lain for Unknown Warrior

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were greeted by the Duke of York as they arrived at Westminster Abbey.

The president was welcomed by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, who led prayers at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior.

A wreath was laid in honour of the two World Wars and more recent conflicts, as is tradition with a state visit - President George W Bush laid a wreath in 2003 and President Obama in 2011.

Prince Andrew, Duke of York (left) with US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior - Credit: Chris Jackson
Prince Andrew, Duke of York (left) with US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior Credit: Chris Jackson

Standing at the grave, the president touched his hand on the wreath and kept his eyes closed during the prayer.

3:14PM

Trump given Churchill book as gift by Queen

The Queen's official gifts to Mr Trump were a first edition of The Second World War by Winston S Churchill from 1959.

The crimson book features gold tooled decoration on the cover, spine and inner cover, an EIIR cypher in gold on the front, silk endpapers and hand-sewn headbands in colours of the US flag with all pages edged in gilt.

The monarch also gave Mr Trump a three-piece Duofold pen set - a fountain pen, rollerball pen and ball point pen with EIIR cypher - using the obsidian design, exclusively made for the Queen.

Mrs Trump was presented with a specially commissioned silver box with a handcrafted enamel lid.

Its royal blue decoration featured roses, thistles and shamrocks to represent the ceiling of the palace music room.

3:04PM

Trump on the move to Westminster Abbey

The presidential entourage is on the move again - this time heading to Westminster Abbey.

A small crowd opposite Westminster Abbey began applauding and chanting "we love Trump" as a convoy carrying the US President arrived.

Donald and Melania Trump walking through Westminster Abbey - Credit: Mandel Ngan/AFP
Donald and Melania Trump walking through Westminster Abbey Credit: Mandel Ngan/AFP

2:56PM

Video footage from inside Buckingham Palace

Hannah Furness, our Royal Correspondent, is inside Buckingham Palace's picture gallery.

She has this exclusive footage of The Queen showing Donald Trump a selection of American artefacts from the Royal Collection.

2:39PM

Queen showing Donald Trump American artefacts inside Buckingham Palace

The President of the US is being shown a number American artefacts inside Buckingham Palace - and has a very special guide.

The Queen is personally showing Mr Trump and his wife Melania around the Royal Collection inside the palace.

The Queen shows Donald Trump around the Royal Collection - Credit: Mandel Ngan/AFP
The Queen shows Donald Trump around the Royal Collection Credit: Mandel Ngan/AFP

With the US leader's Scottish heritage, a bolt of Harris tweed was pointed out to him and the monarch rubbed her fingers to indicate its soft texture.

At one point Mr Trump looked up and smiled at the gathered media.

The Duke of Sussex, who was at the lunch, entered the room alongside Ivanka Trump.

The Duke of York was also there and spent time showing Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner the displays.

Meanwhile, Prince Harry stayed mainly at the far end of the room chatting to the Lord Chamberlain of the Royal Household Earl Peel.

2:26PM

A royal fist-bump?

Donald Trump's hands may have been tired from launching social media grenades all morning, so you could forgive him for not quite getting to grips with The Queen's handshake.

At first glance, it looks as though the US President and Her Majesty are exchanging fist-bumps - perhaps a nod to the Cricket World Cup.

The Queen greets Donald Trump with what looks like a fist-bump at first glance - Credit: PA/Victoria Jones
The Queen greets Donald Trump with what looks like a fist-bump at first glance Credit: PA/Victoria Jones

Even the Press Association, whose photographer Victoria Jones took the momentous picture, hashtagged the photograph "fist bump".

But upon closer inspection, Mr Trump's hand can be seen curled around the fingers of his host in an awkward half-handshake, half-thumb war embrace.

The awkward handshake - Credit: Victoria Jones/PA
The awkward handshake between Donald Trump and The Wueen Credit: Victoria Jones/PA

2:12PM

Secret messages behind Melania's outfits

1:59PM

Muted protests outside Buckingham Palace

Protests outside Buckingham Palace were notably muted as Donald Trump arrived for his reception with the Queen, despite fears of widespread disruption, reports news reporter Jack Hardy.

However, Hada Moreno, 46, travelled from Oxford so she could hold up a placard reading: "Love the good American people. Hate Trumpism".

Hada Moreno from Oxford - Credit: Jack Hardy/The Telegraph
Hada Moreno from Oxford Credit: Jack Hardy/The Telegraph

She said: "I think it is important to speak up against what is wrong. I believe that is my right, my obligation, to speak up for our British values of freedom, democracy, equality, tolerance and respect for all religions, which is completely what Trump is against."

Police were forced to step in after Pro-Trump activists carrying British and US flags began a heated row with a member of the public.

One man, wearing a Chelsea football shirt and carrying a flag bearing a dragon, accused the passerby of being an "ignoramus" and, in turn, was told he should "ashamed".

Several officers approached the group after a crowd began to form and ordered those watching to move on.

1:34PM

The Telegraph behind the scenes at Buckingham Palace

Our Royal Correspondent was on the West Lawn of Buckingham Palace to witness Donald Trump being officially welcomed to the UK by The Queen.

Check out the exclusive footage she captured below:

1:06PM

Khan's video message to Trump

Sadiq Khan has been featured in a video addressing Donald Trump, saying "your values are the opposite of ours".

The video, released by women's magazine Elle, features the Mayor of London delivering a speech to camera addressing the US' abortion laws.

12:46PM

Trump takes time to talk to each individual soldier

When the royal party and their guests stepped from the palace, Mr Trump was invited to inspect the guard of honour.

In an unusual move, the president took the time to talk to each soldier individually.

Charles accompanied the president as he strode onto the lawns to inspect the waiting troops formed up in two lines with the guardsmen wearing their famous scarlet tunics and bearskins.

Several of the guardsmen on parade have US links.  All will at some point in their careers train alongside US forces.

The tallest on parade, Guardsman Joshua Young-Hastings from Wandsworth, London played American Football for the London Warriors prior to joining the British Army, and was scouted for a professional career with the NFL.

He was awarded a half scholarship to Baylor University to play American Football.

President Donald Trump inspect the Guard of Honour at Buckingham Palace - Credit: Alex Brandon/AP
President Donald Trump inspect the Guard of Honour at Buckingham Palace Credit: Alex Brandon/AP

His grandmother was always a huge fan of the guards, watching Trooping the Colour every year, and Joshua chose against a sporting career to join the Grenadier Guards to make his granny proud as well as to serve his country – a lifelong ambition for him.

Another instantly recognisable guardsman on parade on Monday with an impressive handlebar moustache is Guardsman Robert Spilling who was born in St Louis, Missouri to an English father and American mother.

Having finished school he enlisted in the US Army. On completion of training Robert Spilling was assigned to 4th Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

Having passed Air Assault School, Robert was then deployed to Afghanistan as a Specialist, performing duties as a forward artillery observer and as part of a force protection team, working alongside British forces and looking after American advisors. On return from this seven month deployment, he was promoted to Sergeant.

At the end of his US Army contract, he chose not to re-enlist, choosing instead to pursue a career in the British Army.

Joining the Grenadier Guards in June 2018, Guardsman Spilling was sent  to Nijmegen Company in order to learn his role as an Infantryman and as a Guardsman.

He has already been selected to attend a junior non-commissioned officers course, which will see him promote to Lance Corporal should he pass.

12:42PM

National anthems played at Buckingham Palace

The first anthem played by the band was the US anthem. Both Donald and Melania Trump held their right hands across their chests as the music played.

Mr Trump then inspected the guard of honour, before God Save The Queen was played.

12:31PM

Queen shakes hands warmly with President

The Queen shook hands warmly with Mr Trump and smiled broadly before turning to greet the First Lady.

The Trumps and the royals then went inside the palace, through the Bow Room, where the Queen introduced senior members of her household to her guests and in-turn the US leader did the same with prominent figures from his entourage.

Queen shakes hands warmly with President - Credit: Victoria Jones/PA
Queen shakes hands warmly with President Credit: Victoria Jones/PA

Outside the trees swayed and the waiting press shielded their eyes as the president's helicopter and its accompanying aircraft took off.

After the helicopters had left the guard of honour formed by Nijmegen Company Grenadier Guards under the command of Major Hamish Hardy, and the Band of the Grenadier Guards and Corps of Drums of the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards formed up on the lawns.

12:28PM

Band plays to welcome Trump

On the West Lawn of Buckingham Palace gardens,  the guard of honour, formed by Nijmegen Company Grenadier Guards, commanded by Major Hamish Hardy, gave a Royal Salute and the Band of the Grenadier Guards, supported by the Corps of Drums of the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, will then perform the US and UK National Anthems.

Eight Troopers from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will line the steps up to the Grand Terrace, and Silver Stick, Colonel Crispin Lockhart, and Lieutenant Colonel Simon Soskin The Field Officer in Brigade Waiting, were in attendance.

All soldiers on parade were under command of the General Officer Commanding The Household Division, Major General Ben Bathurst.

The President will then be invited to inspect the Guard of Honour.

12:19PM

Gun salutes to welcome Trump

At the invitation of Her Majesty The Queen, troops from the British Army’s Household Division delivered an immaculate Guard of Honour for the arrival of the President of the United States of America at Buckingham Palace.

As the President arrived on the West Lawns, two 41-gun salutes fired simultaneously in The Green Park by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and at HM Tower of London by the Honourable Artillery Company.

Donald Trump and Prince Charles walk to Buckingham Palace - Credit: Adrian Dennis/AFP
Donald Trump and Prince Charles walk to Buckingham Palace Credit: Adrian Dennis/AFP

British armed forces have trained and fought alongside American troops for more than a century and no two countries work more closely together on defence cooperation.

The State Visit Gun Salutes is followed seamlessly by a further 41-gun Salute in The Green Park by The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and a further 62 Gun Salute by the Honourable Artillery Company at HM Tower of London.

This second salute is to commemorate the anniversary of the Coronation of Her Majesty The Queen which falls on Sunday, June 2 but will be marked coincidentally also on Monday as Gun Salutes are never fired on Sundays.

US President Donald Trump was then met by the Prince of Wales and formally welcomed to Great Britain by Her Majesty The Queen once inside the palace.

In total, therefore, London will witness 185 Guns fired for the two distinct special events.

12:18PM

Ivanka peers out of Buckingham Palace window

As she waited for her father to be greeted by the Royal Family, Ivanka Trump was seen peering out of one of the windows of Buckinham Palace.

Ivanka Trump looks out of the window - Credit: Chris Jackson
Ivanka Trump looks out of the window Credit: Chris Jackson

 

11:57AM

No formal May-Trump meeting expected

Donald Trump will not hold formal one-to-one talks with the Prime Minister during his State visit, Downing Street have confirmed, reports Political Correspondent Harry Yorke.

Theresa May will hold a series of meetings with the the US President on Tuesday, including a round table with business leaders and a separate discussion where they will be joined by their two delegations.

On both occasions, the two leaders will joined by their delegations of senior officials and ministers.

However, the schedule for the visit does not include time for the two leaders to meet on their own.

Instead, Mr Trump and Mrs May will host a round table with business leaders, which will be attended by the Chancellor Philip Hammond and the International Trade Secretary Liam Fox.

They will also hold a bilateral meeting in Downing Street, where they will be joined by their two delegations and Jeremy Hunt, the Foreign Secretary.

Downing Street insisted it was normal for meetings between the two leaders to take place with their delegations.

Theresa May and U.S. President Donald Trump walk to a joint news conference at Chequers, the official country residence of the Prime Minister, near Aylesbury, last year - Credit: Hannah McKay/Reuters
Theresa May and U.S. President Donald Trump walk to a joint news conference at Chequers, the official country residence of the Prime Minister, near Aylesbury, last year Credit: Hannah McKay/Reuters

Mrs May will first welcome Mr Trump and the First Lady on the steps of Downing Street on Tuesday, before posing for photographs inside.

Mr Trump and the Prime Minister will then host a joint press conference, and will go on to a private tour of the Churchill War Rooms, where Winston Churchill helped mastermind the Second World War effort.

They will be joined by historians, a Downing Street spokesperson said.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said it was "always going to be the case" that the meeting in the Cabinet Room at Number 10 would involve the delegations.

"These are always how the discussions take place with any leader," the spokesman said, adding there was "nothing unusual here". The spokesman insisted the two leaders would have time for informal private talks during Mr Trump's visit. "You can see the events they are at, you can see the fact she is providing him with a tour of the Churchill War Rooms, I would expect them to be having discussions with just the two of them."

Asked whether Mr Trump did not want to meet Mrs May for a one-to-one, her official spokesman said: "I'm sure the answer to that is no."

Downing Street said the US President's spat with London Mayor Sadiq Khan was a matter for them.

And the Prime Minister's spokesman would not be drawn on Theresa May's response to Donald Trump's pre-visit interviews criticising her Brexit policy, backing Boris Johnson and praising Nigel Farage. "The president was asked a series of questions and he chose to answer them," the spokesman said. Asked whether Brexit Party leader Mr Farage should join the negotiations with Brussels, the spokesman said: "The next phase of Brexit negotiations will be conducted by somebody else, not by the Prime Minister. "It will be for them to seek a way forward."

11:56AM

Trump tweets from the air - again!

In his third airborne tweet of the day, Donald Trump takes aim at CNN for the 'false picture' it paints of the USA.

"Sad," he signed off the message.

11:50AM

'We should extend Trump a welcome', Farage says

Nigel Farage, leader of the Brexit Party, tweeted: "As Trump arrives in the UK for his thee-day visit, he comes offering a trade deal if we need one, but also American's hand of friendship.

"As the democratically elected leader of the free world, we should extend to him a welcome that befits the status of his office and great country."

11:45AM

Trump's Twitter keeps delivering

As he waits to meet The Queen, it seems Donald Trump is keeping himself busy with his Twitter account.

Not satisfied with tearing into Sadiq Khan, the president took aim at China and then CNN from the sanctuary of Winfield House.

In another tweet half an hour later, he criticised long-time critic CNN. He said: "Just arrived in the United Kingdom. The only problem is that CNN is the primary source of news available from the US.

"After watching it for a short while, I turned it off. All negative and so much fake news, very bad for US. Big ratings drop. Why doesn’t owner AT&T do something?"

11:37AM

Police officers on Buckingham Palace roof

Police officers can be seen standing at three different points on the roof at the front of Buckingham Palace.

The crowd outside is growing, and they are still being entertained by a military band playing on the palace forecourt.

Police of the roof of Buckingham Palace, London, during the first day of a state visit to the UK by US  - Credit: Steve Parsons/PA
Police of the roof of Buckingham Palace, London, during the first day of a state visit to the UK by US Credit: Steve Parsons/PA

Tunes have included the themes to both Rocky and Fame.

11:28AM

Trump v Khan: A history of bad blood

A long-running personal feud between US President Donald Trump and London Mayor Sadiq Khan appears to be far from over.

The pair publicly clashed in the latest round of exchanges as the US head of state began a three-day state visit to the UK.

But what other incidents have there been?

July 2018

Mr Trump laid into Mr Khan after a wave of terror attacks in the capital the previous year, accusing him of "doing a terrible job" and a "bad job on crime".

The verbal attack on Mr Khan came after the London mayor refused to block a plan to fly a giant inflatable "Trump baby" near Parliament to coincide with the US president's visit to the UK.

The Trump blimp - Credit: Andrew Yates/Reuters
The Trump blimp Credit: Andrew Yates/Reuters

Flown in London during the president's last visit, the 20ft high blimp depicted the US leader as an angry infant wearing a nappy and clutching a mobile phone.

At the time, Mr Khan said he would not rise to Mr Trump's "beastly" comments.

June 2017

The pair clashed in the wake of the deadly London Bridge terror attack, after Mr Khan said Londoners should not be alarmed by visibly increased security on the streets of the capital.

In response, Mr Trump tweeted: "At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is 'no reason to be alarmed!"'

Mr Khan said he would not allow Mr Trump or anyone else to "divide our community".

May 2016

Before Mr Trump was elected as US president, he and Mr Khan were involved in another public row.

The then presidential candidate had previously called for Muslims to be banned from the US, but after the election of Mr Khan as mayor, said he would make an exception for him.

In response, Mr Khan, who is a Muslim, said he is "not exceptional", adding that the views of Mr Trump and his advisers on Islam are "ignorant" and invited him to come and meet moderate Muslims.

He added: "The vast, vast, vast majority of Muslims are law-abiding and peaceful (and) unequivocally condemn these acts of terror committed by a small number of people using the name of Islam to justify their nihilistic actions."

Hitting back during an interview, Mr Trump branded the statements from the Labour politician as "very rude" and "very nasty", and challenged him to an IQ test.

10:58AM

Labour criticism of Trump's Khan tweets

Responding to Mr Trump's tweets about the Mayor of London, Labour MP Yvette Cooper tweeted: "So appalled Theresa May has given this man a red carpeted platform to do this.

"Doesn't help Britain to be lavishing pomp on a President so determined to be divisive, childish and destructive. Doesn't help US or world to be gifting him a whole load of Royal photo ops to use next year."

Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott added: "Ridiculous insults from Trump."

10:50AM

'Shameful' Khan is disrespecting Trump, supporter says.

Another Trump supporter hit out at the critics of the US President, suggesting it was "disrespectful" during his state visit, reports Jack Hardy.

Neil Clark, a 39-year-old retail worker from Woolwich, south London, said outside Buckingham Palace: "I'm a massive fan of Trump - great guy, doing great things in the US. I like his charisma and energy and the passion of his."

Asked about the criticism of Mr Trump, the supporter, also wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat said: "To be honest, I think it's disrespectful. The majority of people here are here to welcome the President of the US.

"I think it's quite shameful that Sadiq Khan is encouraging this."

On his tweets about Mr Khan, he added: "I think it's justified, the way that Sadiq Khan has talked about him and it's quite disrespectful."

10:45AM

Jeremy Hunt accidentally tags wrong Melania account in tweet

You could forgive the Foreign Secretary for getting over-excited having just greeted the President and his wife to the UK ahead of their state visit.

He tweeted of his pride at greeting the couple, but accidentally tagged the wrong Melania Trump account in the message.

Instead of mentioning the @FLOTUS account, he instead decided to use the @MelaniaTrump account, which hasn't been active since January 2018.

10:16AM

Trump critics 'brainwashed', says supporter

One Trump supporter standing outside Buckingham Palace in a "Make America Great Again" hat said she had travelled from Aberystwyth in Wales for the occasion, reports news reporter Jack Hardy.

The woman, who asked not to be named, suggested people who criticised the US President had been brainwashed.

She told The Telegraph: "I think it's a disease that needs tackling, they have been brainwashed.

"We have got legions of brainwashed idiots who would rather have the end of humanity than not be politically correct."

On Mr Trump's Tweets about Sadiq Khan, she added: "I think it is fantastic. Look at all the flack he gets."

The supporter arrived on the 6.59am train from Banbury in Oxfordshire, where she will be staying for several days over the course of Mr Trump's visit.

10:02AM

'Carnival of resistance' expected in Westminster

We have been warned about the "carnival of resistance" planned to mark the visit of the US President.

Our news reporter Jack Hardy has met one of those in London whose only goal is to swear at Mr Trump.

Outside Buckingham Palace, Rudy, a 39-year-old from Jersey, said he was waiting to give the middle finger to Mr Trump.

The chef booked a flight over from Frankfurt, close to where he works, for just eight Euros to greet the US President.

He told The Telegraph: "I will stand here until the cars drive by - how many opportunities will I have in my life to put my finger up to D-Trizz?

"I would have paid as much as 16 Euros for that."

The tourist said he works with many people from the US in Trier, Germany, but they have chosen to go to Disneyland Paris this week instead of travelling to the UK to see their president.

"Boy George is going to be at Disneyland Paris," he explained.

9:49AM

A look back at Trump's last visit

With the state visit merely minutes old, it looks like we will once again be spoiled for talking points.

Here is a look back at the last time the President of the United States was on British soil.

9:47AM

Sadiq Khan responds to being called 'stone cold loser'

A spokesman for Sadiq Khan said: "This is much more serious than childish insults which should be beneath the President of the United States.

"Sadiq is representing the progressive values of London and our country, warning that Donald Trump is the most egregious example of a growing far-right threat around the globe, which is putting at risk the basic values that have defined our liberal democracies for more than 70 years."

9:45AM

Trump voiced "strong feelings" about Khan moment he stepped off Air Force One

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt was one of the first people Donald Trump talked to on British soil, and there was only one man on the president's mind - London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

Mr Hunt said: "He shared his strong feelings about the Mayor of London," when asked what they talked about. Although the Tory leadership hopeful would not divulge the exact details of what was said, he said it was consistent with the language he used in his tweets about Mr Khan.

The Foreign Secretary continued: "The president does what the president does but let's ask why he was so angry when he did that tweet and I think the very simple reason is he's been shown great discourtesy.

"What I would say is for Sadiq Khan and the Labour Party to be boycotting the state visit of the President of the United States, who has been invited here not by Theresa May but by Her Majesty the Queen to celebrate a relationship that goes back centuries but just 75 years ago saw a million American servicemen on our soil land ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for our liberty, is I'm afraid, virtue-signalling of the worst kind."

Mr Hunt told the BBC it was "disgraceful" to boycott the visit given the timing, and said the world is looking at the US and the UK as the "guardians of democracy", and that the visit should "go beyond politics".

9:24AM

What makes up Trump's 17-vehicle motorcade?

The president's car - The Beast - is one of the most advanced roadworthy vehicles in the world. Here is a closer look at it.

9:22AM

Trump state visit: timetable

9:17AM

The expected controversy surrounding the state visit

Shortly before boarding Marine One in the US, Mr Trump was asked if he planned to meet Boris Johnson during the trip.

"Well, I think I may meet with him. He's been a friend of mine. He's been very nice. I have a very good relationship with him," the president said of the Tory leadership hopeful.

He went on: "I have a very good relationship with Nigel Farage, with many people over there (in the UK) and we'll see what happens. I may meet with him. They want to meet. We'll see what happens."

Mr Farage said over the weekend he had been "banned" from meeting Mr Trump during his visit.

Accompanied by first lady Melania Trump, the president arrived aboard Air Force One on Monday morning having already created a considerable degree of political turbulence with comments on the Tory leadership race, Brexit and the Duchess of Sussex.

Ahead of the visit, he called on Britain to leave the European Union without a deal if Brussels refuses to meet its demands and urged the Government to send Mr Farage into the negotiations.

Addressing the prospect of a transatlantic trade deal, Mr Trump said: "(We're) going to the UK. I think it'll be very important. It certainly will be very interesting. There's a lot going on in the UK. And I'm sure it's going to work out very well for them.

"As you know, they want to do trade with the United States, and I think there's an opportunity for a very big trade deal at some point in the near future. And we'll see how that works out."

Anti-Trump protesters are expected to gather in large numbers in London, but Mr Trump will be largely shielded from them, as his official welcome will take place at Buckingham Palace,  away from the public gaze. He will not take part in a carriage procession during his stay.

The president departed from Joint Base Andrews near Washington DC aboard Air Force One at around 8.45pm local time (1.45am BST).

The Trumps are due to arrive aboard at Stansted Airport before heading to Buckingham Palace for a reception with the Queen, Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

The Duke of Sussex will also attend a private lunch at the palace - although his wife, who is on maternity leave, will be at home with their four-week-old son, Archie.

Mr Trump has already denied calling the Duchess of Sussex "nasty" when he was recently confronted with comments she made before the 2016 US elections saying she would leave the country if he won.

Asked at the White House on Sunday evening if he was willing to apologise to the Royal Family, or to clarify the comments made to The Sun's political editor, Mr Trump replied: "No, I made no bad comment. Thank you."

On Sunday, Mr Khan described the president as "just one of the most egregious examples of a growing global threat" and compared the language he has used to that of the "fascists of the 20th century".

Asked if he would be willing to meet the London mayor, Mr Trump replied: "No, I don't think much of him. I think that he's a - he's the twin of (New York City mayor Bill) de Blasio, except shorter."

9:10AM

Trump appears from Air Force One

The president and his wife Melania waved from the top of the stairs of Air Force One having landed at Stansted Airport.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt is among the arriving party. After exchanging pleasantries with the gathered delegates - which included the US ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson - the presidential couple boarded the Marine One helicopter to take them to Westminster.

The president appeared to salute a police officer who was also there to meet him.

He briefly held hands with Melania as they walked to their helicopter.

9:00AM

Sadiq Khan a 'stone cold loser', Trump tweets from Air Force One

While Air Force One was still in the air over Essex, Donald Trump unleashed a barrage of abuse criticising London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

Air Force One pictured on a live stream, showing that the tweets were sent from the air - Credit: Sky News
Air Force One pictured on a live stream, showing that the tweets were sent from the air Credit: Sky News

 

8:57AM

Donald and Melania Trump land in the UK

The US President and the First Lady have arrived at Stansted Airport.

Two huge presidential helicopters sat on the runway having arrived in Essex first.

Minutes later, the iconic Air Force One touched down on day one of their three-day state visit.

8:48AM

The itinerary

As we await the arrival of the presidential party, here's the rundown of what to expect from our Royal Correspondent Hannah Furness.

8:41AM

The Mall ready for Trump

Our news reporter Jack Hardy is down at Buckingham Palace awaiting the arrival of the US President and his entourage.

The Mall is primed and ready for Mr Trump's visit.

8:25AM

State of British politics as Trump visits

Theresa May will be preparing to hand over the reins to a new leader as Donald Trump touches down, leaving the UK politically vulnerable.

With the Tories looking for the chance to change tack, the US will be looking to influence the UK's future direction on various political issues.

Mr Trump and the Prime Minister hold talks at 10 Downing Street on Tuesday and he is expected to raise some controversial topics.

Praising rivals

Mr Trump praised two of Mrs May's political rivals just days before his state visit to the UK, risking embarrassing her before Airforce One even touched down.

The President hinted he may meet Tory leadership frontrunner Boris Johnson and Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage during his trip, describing both men as friends and "big powers".

Speaking to reporters in Washington, Mr Trump said: "Nigel Farage is a friend of mine. Boris is a friend of mine. They are two very good guys, very interesting people."

Donald Trump and Nigel Farage pictured in February - Credit: Shealah Craighead/White House
Donald Trump and Nigel Farage pictured in February Credit: Shealah Craighead/White House

Both men have been vocal critics of Mrs May's attempts to find a compromise Brexit deal.

Post-Brexit trade

Last year, the President publicly poo-pooed Mrs May's Brexit deal, saying the terms for Brexit would damage the chances of a UK-US trade deal.

Managing the special relationship will continue to be a challenge for her successor, as the incoming leader will face the same parliamentary difficulties that scuppered her attempts to build a coalition behind her proposals.

A post-Brexit trade deal with the US is one of the key prizes sought by the UK after leaving the EU, but political rows over chlorine-washed chicken, hormone-treated beef, and Mr Trump's "America first" approach to international affairs will need careful negotiation.

Huawei

The US wants to discuss concerns over the UK potentially allowing Huawei access to UK 5G networks during the visit.

US national security adviser John Bolton confirmed the issue, which led directly to the sacking of former defence secretary Gavin Williamson, would be discussed.

Although the UK Government insists no decision has yet been taken, leaked reports from the National Security Council suggested Mrs May could allow the firm access to peripheral but not core parts of the network.

Speaking at the American embassy in London, Mr Bolton suggested Mrs May's plan should be ditched by her successor because Huawei poses "a different kind of threat" and the US would accept "zero" risk of telecommunication networks being intercepted by foreign powers.

Iran

There are fears Mr Trump's administration is sliding towards war with Iran following the deployment of a US aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Gulf.

And a public clash between the Pentagon and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) did not help matters, when a British general expressed doubts about the potential threat Iran poses to the US and its allies.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has moved to smooth tension - discussing the situation with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during talks in London earlier this month and insisting the UK and US "share the same assessment of the heightened threat posed by Iran" - but concerns remain.

7:44AM

How the US has covered Trump's visit

US president Donald Trump and wife Melania are set to arrive in Britain for a three-day state visit.

Here is how media outlets back across the pond are reporting on the trip.

The New York Times says Mr Trump is visiting Britain "amid tense relations", citing differing positions on the Iran nuclear deal and Huawei.

The paper tells its online readers: "President Trump prides himself on being the great disrupter, but when he arrives in London on Monday for a state visit, it's not clear how much more he can shake up a country that is already convulsed, divided and utterly exhausted by the long debate over its departure from the European Union."

The paper adds: "Mr Trump's penchant for uncensored opinions and unsolicited advice is likely to capture as many headlines, if history is any guide, as the visit's stately rituals."

CNN refers to comments in which he suggested the Duchess of Sussex was "nasty" and backed Boris Johnson to succeed Theresa May.

The broadcaster, which has been criticised by the president in the past, says Mr Trump "limbered up for his latest overseas trip in typical style, with remarks that risked insulting his royal hosts and by plunging headlong into the country's fraught domestic politics".

It adds: "Most presidents would go out of their way to avoid such sensitive topics at a moment of extreme political stress.

"In Trump's case, they may deepen his already intense unpopularity in Britain ahead of his arrival for a three-day stay on Monday but enhance his global reputation as an unpredictable, disruptive influence."

The Washington Post tells readers Britain appears to be a "reluctant host" for the president.

It says of the pomp and pageantry of the state visit: "It will all be suitably over-the-top. But there is also a sense that British officials are slightly less than enthusiastic about this particular round of state visit grandeur."

The paper adds: "But whatever happens over the next few days, the Queen, one expects, will be as inscrutable as ever."

In an online article for Fox News, commentator James Carafano says "so what" if Mr Trump will not receive a cordial welcome across the board.

"Trump's No. 1 job is to deliver the message, 'Don't worry. Be happy'. Britain will thrive after Brexit, and post-Brexit Britain's 'special relationship' with the US will be as special as ever," he writes.

"Job No. 2 should be to start revitalising what has made the US-UK relationship so special: our joint commitment to transatlantic security that spanned two world wars, a Cold War, and lots of messy stuff in between and after."

The Los Angeles Times reports on the visit beneath the headline: "Trump heads to London amid Brexit furore and political upheaval in Europe. What could go wrong?"

"If past is prologue, Trump won't resist the urge to weigh in with his own opinions and to align himself with populist, nationalistic leaders he views as strong," an online article says.

"Trump's in-your-face put-down of (Theresa) May last summer, just before they met, reflected the president's indifference to diplomatic norms that world leaders should avoid meddling in another nation's politics while abroad, as well as his tendency to frequently embarrass his foreign hosts."

The New York Post picks up comments by Mr Trump as he left the White House in which he described London mayor Sadiq Khan as a "shorter" version of his counterpart in the Big Apple.

The paper tells readers: "The president made the remarks ahead of his flight to London, where he said has no intention to meet with Khan - who recently called Trump a 'global threat'."