John Bercow to deny Donald Trump Commons speech

American President Donald Trump will not be afforded the chance to speak at Westminster on a state visit after an extraordinary intervention by Commons Speaker John Bercow.

John Bercow will not let Donald Trump speak in the House of Commons. Picture: TSPL

Earlier, almost a quarter of MP’s had signed a motion deploring Trump’s actions since taking office last month, and Bercow said he agreed that the New Yorker shouldn’t be allowed to speak at Westminster Hall.

SNP MPs led applause for former Conservative MP Bercow, who has previously chided them for clapping.

The controversial businessman has launched himself into the job at full speed as he seeks to quickly implement his populist, protectionist and nationalist agenda.

“A state visit is way beyond the pay grade of a Speaker. However as far as this place is concerned I feel very strongly that our oppiosition to racism and sexism are hugely important considerations in the House of Commons.”

The Speaker, a pointedly neutral office, cannot block a speech by a foreign leader outright. But Bercow’s decision not to approve an invite (which would normally have been sent in his name) almost certainly means President Trump won’t be given the same platform as his predecessor.

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