Trump might not speak at UK parliament during state visit

The UK Parliament not sitting for much of September could impact the potential for US President Donald Trump to address parliament during his state visit later this year. President Macron was invited to speak in front of both Houses of Parliament during his recent state visit, but no formal request has been made for Trump to do the same.

The Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, has not yet received a request for Trump to speak in parliament during his expected visit in September. Labour MP Kate Osborne has expressed concerns about Trump addressing parliament due to his past comments and actions, contrasting with her positive view of Macron's visit.

The timing of Trump's visit in September, when Parliament is not in session due to party conferences, may help avoid diplomatic sensitivities or perceptions of a snub. The dates for the state visit have not been confirmed, but preparations have begun, with expectations that the visit will likely take place from mid to late September.

The decision for a foreign head of state to address parliament during a state visit is part of the planning process, and not automatically included in the itinerary. Trump's upcoming visit will be his second state visit, with uncertainties about whether he will address parliament, as his predecessor Barack Obama did.

The potential absence of parliamentary sessions during Trump's visit could offer a diplomatic solution to the issue of him addressing parliament, according to MP Kate Osborne. The decision on whether a foreign head of state addresses parliament is part of the planning process for a state visit, and formal addresses are not automatically included in the itinerary.