UK govt rejects petition calling for withdrawal of Trump visit invitation

The British government has rejected a petition calling for the withdrawal of US President Donald Trump's state visit invitation.

The petition has so far been signed by 1.85m people who claimed a visit by the controversial leader would cause “embarrassment” to Queen Elizabeth.

However, in its response published in the early hours of Tuesday morning, the government said it believed Trump should be extended the “full courtesy” of a state visit.

“We look forward to welcoming President Trump once dates and arrangements are finalised,” it added.

“HM Government recognises the strong views expressed by the many signatories of this petition, but does not support this petition.”

The invitation was issued during Prime Minister Theresa May's talks in Washington with the newly-elected US president last month.

“This invitation reflects the importance of the relationship between the United States of America and the United Kingdom.”

Dates have yet to be agreed. The government is wary of large anti-Trump protests after he implemented a travel ban on seven mainly Muslim countries which sparked outrage around the world and has now led to a court battle within the US.