News
September 17, 2025
John Swinney rejects calls to boycott white-tie banquet in Donald Trump's honour
JOHN Swinney has rejected calls to boycott a state banquet at Windsor Castle in Donald Trump’s honour.
**Swinney Stands Firm: No Boycott of Trump Banquet**
Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has declined to endorse calls for a boycott of the state banquet scheduled to be held at Windsor Castle in honour of former US President Donald Trump. The decision comes despite mounting pressure from various political figures and activist groups who argue that attending the event would normalize what they see as unacceptable behavior and policies associated with the former president.
The planned banquet, a formal white-tie affair, has stirred considerable controversy since its announcement. Critics point to Trump’s past rhetoric and actions, arguing that extending such a prestigious invitation undermines values of equality, respect, and international cooperation. Calls for a boycott have been circulating widely on social media, with many urging prominent political figures to take a stand by refusing to attend.
However, Swinney has remained steadfast in his position. While his precise reasoning has not been fully elaborated upon, it is understood that his decision reflects a commitment to maintaining diplomatic channels and engaging constructively with international leaders, even when disagreements exist. Sources close to the First Minister suggest that a boycott would be a symbolic gesture that ultimately achieves little in terms of influencing policy or promoting dialogue.
This decision is likely to provoke mixed reactions across Scotland. While some will applaud Swinney for prioritizing diplomacy and stability, others will undoubtedly view it as a missed opportunity to send a strong message of disapproval regarding Trump's past actions. The debate surrounding the banquet underscores the complex challenges involved in navigating international relations in an increasingly polarized world. The event is expected to draw significant media attention, and Swinney's presence, or absence, will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized. The First Minister's office is expected to release a fuller statement in the coming days to further clarify his position on this sensitive matter.
Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has declined to endorse calls for a boycott of the state banquet scheduled to be held at Windsor Castle in honour of former US President Donald Trump. The decision comes despite mounting pressure from various political figures and activist groups who argue that attending the event would normalize what they see as unacceptable behavior and policies associated with the former president.
The planned banquet, a formal white-tie affair, has stirred considerable controversy since its announcement. Critics point to Trump’s past rhetoric and actions, arguing that extending such a prestigious invitation undermines values of equality, respect, and international cooperation. Calls for a boycott have been circulating widely on social media, with many urging prominent political figures to take a stand by refusing to attend.
However, Swinney has remained steadfast in his position. While his precise reasoning has not been fully elaborated upon, it is understood that his decision reflects a commitment to maintaining diplomatic channels and engaging constructively with international leaders, even when disagreements exist. Sources close to the First Minister suggest that a boycott would be a symbolic gesture that ultimately achieves little in terms of influencing policy or promoting dialogue.
This decision is likely to provoke mixed reactions across Scotland. While some will applaud Swinney for prioritizing diplomacy and stability, others will undoubtedly view it as a missed opportunity to send a strong message of disapproval regarding Trump's past actions. The debate surrounding the banquet underscores the complex challenges involved in navigating international relations in an increasingly polarized world. The event is expected to draw significant media attention, and Swinney's presence, or absence, will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized. The First Minister's office is expected to release a fuller statement in the coming days to further clarify his position on this sensitive matter.
Category:
Politics