The King is being urged to attend Canada’s State Opening of Parliament as a ‘show of support’ against US President Donald Trump’s trade wars.
King Charles has been praised by Canadians for his ‘subtle diplomacy’ amid the onslaught from Mr Trump to make the country the ’51st state’ of America.
Sources in Canada say they now expect the King to attend the opening ceremony after their federal election – which is predicted to be held this spring.
Former Conservative MP Andrew Percy, now based in Vancouver, said it would be ‘a neat political move’, while one insider added: ‘There is precedent, the Queen attended in the past. That would . . . signal strong support to Canadians.’
The King recently donned his Canadian medals while on board HMS Prince of Wales and last week presented his Canadian personal attendant with a new ceremonial sword at Buckingham Palace – displays of unity which have attracted praise.
Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith also backed the calls, saying yesterday: ‘He is the King of Canada, too, a country that has fought for freedom and represents our values.’
The date for Canada’s next election, which must be concluded before October, has yet to be announced – but sources expect the vote to be held in the spring.
The late Queen first attended the State Opening of Canada’s Parliament in 1957. George VI also made a visit to the Canadian Parliament on a royal tour in 1939.
The King is being urged to attend Canada ‘s State Opening of Parliament as a ‘show of support’ against US President Donald Trump’s trade wars. Pictured: Canada’s prime minister Mark Carney
The King recently donned his Canadian medals while on board HMS Prince of Wales and last week presented his Canadian personal attendant with a new ceremonial sword at Buckingham Palace – displays of unity which have attracted praise. Pictured: The King on Commonwealth Day earlier this week
King Charles has been praised by Canadians for his ‘subtle diplomacy’ amid the onslaught from Mr Trump to make the country the ’51st state’ of America
Royal biographer Hugo Vickers said: ‘The King or a member of the Royal Family should definitely attend. He is the King of Canada and must do everything possible to make them feel special.’
Referring to Mr Trump receiving an invitation for a second state visit to Britain, Mr Percy added: ‘It would put Trump in a really difficult position.
‘He is going to accept a state visit with the King while at the same time threatening and showing disdain and disrespect for Canada – where [Charles] is the monarch.’
