The MP for Wokingham has come out in support of his party leader, Sir Ed Davey, who plans to boycott next month’s state banquet for Donald Trump at Windsor Castle.
The MP for Wokingham has come out in support of his party leader, Sir Ed Davey, who plans to boycott next month’s state banquet for Donald Trump at Windsor Castle.
Sir Ed made the decision to decline the King’s invitation as a protest against President Trump’s failure to leverage his influence to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Although it goes against his instinct to refuse a royal invitation, Sir Ed believes that boycotting the event is necessary to draw attention to Trump’s ability to impact the situation, including stopping starvation and securing the release of hostages.
Clive Jones, the Liberal Democrat MP for Wokingham, has consistently voiced concerns about the effects of Trump’s policies on the local economy. He expressed his full support for Ed Davey’s decision, stating, “Trump has repeatedly put politics and self-interest ahead of people’s lives – whether it’s refusing to act on Gaza or slapping tariffs on British exports.”
Jones noted that local businesses in Wokingham have felt the negative impact of Trump’s trade wars, saying, “Standing up to Trump is about principle and protecting communities like ours.” Earlier this year, he launched the “Buy Local, Back Britain” campaign to encourage residents to support local businesses affected by Trump’s tariffs.
He also urged Labour government ministers to meet with local businesses to discuss the risks posed by Trump’s economic policies, emphasising that “Sir Ed is right to say this isn’t about disrespecting the King – it’s about making clear that Donald Trump’s choices have consequences.”
As Trump prepares for the state banquet in September, his recent meeting with his son-in-law Jared Kushner and former Prime Minister Tony Blair to discuss plans for Gaza has raised further concerns.
Kushner, known for his role in negotiating the Abraham Accords, has been a significant figure in discussions surrounding the region's peace efforts. With Gaza bordering Egypt and the West Bank next to Jordan, the stakes remain high for both local and international communities.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
