Keir Starmer in key talks with Buckingham Palace on King's security with Donald Trump
Keir Starmer is currently engaging in critical discussions with Buckingham Palace
Sir Keir Starmer is currently engaging in critical discussions with Buckingham Palace concerning King Charles's "security" alongside Donald Trump in the US, as affirmed by the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister.
On Saturday evening, an attempted assault took place during the White House Correspondents' Dinner at the Washington Hilton, prompting an immediate evacuation of the President and First Lady.
Consequently, the Prime Minister has extended a message of support to Mr. Trump.
Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones stated: “These events are extraordinary."
“This morning, the Prime Minister sent a message of support to the U.S. President in light of the recent events.
“Given the King’s visit this week, our teams are actively collaborating to ensure security measures are properly established.”
When asked if there are increased concerns for the King's safety during his upcoming state visit to the US, Mr. Jones mentioned on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips on Sky News: “Understandably, both the Government and the Palace regard the King's security as paramount, and detailed discussions are underway, set to continue over the coming days.”
Sir Keir Starmer expressed his “shock” over the incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister stated: “Any assault on democratic bodies or press freedom must be unequivocally condemned.
“It is an immense relief that POTUS, the First Lady, and all attendees are unharmed.”
King Charles and Queen Camilla are scheduled to land in the US on Monday for a three-day State Visit, during which they will reside in Washington, D.C., with Donald and Melania Trump.
Sir Keir's Chief Secretary noted that talks regarding the King’s security during his US visit would proceed on Sunday.
Mr. Jones remarked on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg show: “It is expected that the Government and the Palace were already coordinating with American partners before the visit, with additional discussions set for today before next week.”
When questioned about any possible increase in planned security actions, he replied: “Security measures will be adjusted according to the risk.”
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told GB News earlier this morning: “The situation is clearly alarming. Security was stringent from the start, especially given the conflict with Iran.
"Undoubtedly, it will be further heightened. As far as I know, no walkabouts were arranged. This alarming security event turned the venue into chaos.”
Secret Service officers apprehended the suspect, Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California. One agent was shot at point-blank range but survived due to their bulletproof vest.
The suspect, armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives, was subdued and detained. He wasn’t shot but was taken to a local hospital for assessment.
Numerous guests, including journalists and officials like Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, sought cover beneath tables.
The suspect faces charges such as assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon and using a firearm in a violent crime. He is slated for a formal court hearing on Monday, April 27.