Trump's UK visit sparks outrage as police threatened with legal action

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is set to visit Scotland between July 25 and 29, where he will tour his golf resorts in Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire. The visit, confirmed by the White House, will include private meetings with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney. However, the trip has already sparked controversy and concern among Scottish law enforcement.

The Scottish Police Federation (SPF), which represents the majority of officers in the country, has raised serious concerns about the planning and safety standards surrounding the visit. With thousands of officers expected to be involved in what Police Scotland described as a "significant policing operation," SPF officials say preparations have already breached health and safety agreements.

David Kennedy, the SPF’s General Secretary, said the current arrangements may put officers at risk and confirmed that the organization is now seeking legal advice about potentially taking action against Police Scotland.

"We currently have workforce agreements in place to protect police officers and provide minimum standards of Health and Safety at work," he said.

"Sadly, we have seen these agreements breached in the days leading to the arrival of POTUS (President of the United States)."

In an interview with STV News, Kennedy voiced strong criticism of staffing levels:

“We do not have enough police officers in Scotland… When these events come along, that puts those officers who are here under so much pressure.”

Police Scotland has already asked for additional resources, including financial support from the Scottish and UK governments, and backup from Northern Ireland’s police force (PSNI). The PSNI confirmed it is reviewing a formal request to assist under the UK’s mutual aid system, a process overseen by the National Police Co-ordination Centre (NPoCC).

Assistant Chief Constable Emma Bond of Police Scotland responded by noting the force is “working closely with the Scottish Police Federation” to address concerns.

While there was initial speculation that King Charles might host Trump at Balmoral or Dumfries House during this visit, any formal state meeting has been postponed until the president’s official state visit later this year.

With widespread protests expected, similar to those during Trump’s previous trips to the UK, the challenge of maintaining public order and ensuring officer welfare remains a key issue in the lead-up to his arrival.