Last Trump state visit cost nearly £4mpublished at 08:07 BST 18 September
Rob Corp
BBC Verify Live editor
While the official cost of US President Donald Trump’s unpreceded second state visit won’t be released for some time, the bill for his first in 2019 is available on the Foreign Office’s website.
It reveals a total cost of just over £427,000, including:
- £99,668 on entertainment
- £32,816 on transport
- £31,732 on accommodation
Crucially, however, the figures exclude key costs like policing and security – and that’s where the bill really climbs.
Last time the Metropolitan Police spent £3.4m, including £800,000 on overtime alone, according to a Freedom of Information release.
A former Met commander told BBC Verify that state visits often require road closures and officers carrying out full checks on street furniture – including inspecting street lamps and drains. This is added to the cost of policing protests and other operational duties.
He explained that forces are normally expected to pay out of their existing budget, but can apply for a Home Office grant if additional costs are incurred.
However, unlike French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit in July, Trump won’t be taking part in a parade – and is not expected to appear in public at all.
Despite the cost, some say state visits help improve diplomatic and trade relations – making them a price worth paying.
How much will President Trump’s visit cost the UK?