Donald Trump has been urged to stay away from London during his upcoming trip to the UK because there is a risk of "major protests, crime and disorder".

In a letter, six conservative groups who support the US President have urged him to visit his "ancestral home" of Scotland instead and meet the Queen in Balmoral.

Mr Trump's mother was born of the Isle of Lewis, and he often visited Scotland before becoming President.

The White House has confirmed that Mr Trump will visit Britain on Friday 13 July - confirming earlier reports by Sky News.

January: Theresa and Donald's Davos love-in

Mr Trump was due to open the new US Embassy in London in February.


He cancelled the trip after saying the building was too expensive - and tweeted that he was not a "big fan" of the decision to move its location.

However, it is thought he scrapped the visit over fears of mass protests in the capital, something that is also believed to have played a part in the postponement of a state visit.

Number 10 insists the invitation for the latter, which would entail lavish ceremonies and a stay with the Queen at Buckingham Palace, still stands.

The letter to Mr Trump has been signed by the heads of conservative think tanks the Bow Group, Bruges Group, Parliament Street and the Freedom Association, as well as the chairman of Republicans Overseas Scotland and a contributor to ThinkScotland.

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The signatories claim the media and political establishment in London is "far out of touch" with the views of ordinary people outside the city, many of whom "strongly support" him.

Their letter says: "Your ancestral homeland of Scotland represents a powerful bond between you and Britain, and given the nature of the climate in London, it is a superior destination.

"As you know, the Royal Estate of Balmoral Castle sits in Scotland's Cairgorms National Park, thus allowing you to make a full state visit as the guest of the Her Majesty the Queen.

"Scotland and the North of England also offer a variety of locations where you would be able to speak directly to ordinary British people and witness the true level of support that exists for you and the special relationship between the US and the UK."

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Ben Harris-Quinney, chairman of the Bow Group, said: "A visit to London by the President is likely to draw major protests, crime and disorder, and we do not wish to see Britain or President Trump embarrassed by this.

"It is important that the people of the United States and its government know there are many in Britain who strongly support the president and the special relationship, and wish for President Trump to be afforded the warmest of welcomes.

"Sadly that will not be the case in London."