Wokingham’s Liberal Democrat MP Clive Jones has backed his party leader Sir Ed Davey’s decision to boycott next month’s state banquet for Donald Trump at Windsor Castle.
He said the move “sends the right message – both globally and locally.”
Sir Ed Davey announced on Thursday that he would decline the King’s invitation in protest at Trump’s failure to use his influence to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The Lib Dem leader said it went against his instincts to refuse a royal invitation, but that boycotting the event was the only way to highlight Trump’s power to stop the starvation and secure the release of hostages.
Clive Jones, who has consistently challenged the impact of Trump’s policies on Wokingham’s local economy, said: “I fully support Ed Davey’s decision.
“Trump has repeatedly put politics and self-interest ahead of people’s lives – whether it’s refusing to act on Gaza or slapping tariffs on British exports.
“Here in Wokingham, we’ve seen first-hand how his trade wars hurt our small businesses. Standing up to Trump is about principle and about protecting communities like ours.”
Earlier this year, Clive Jones launched his “Buy Local, Back Britain” campaign in Wokingham, urging residents to support high street traders and local firms threatened by Trump’s tariffs.
The Wokingham MP also demanded ministers meet businesses across the borough to discuss the risks posed by Trump’s economic policies.
“Ed is right to say this isn’t about disrespecting the King – it’s about making clear that Donald Trump’s choices have consequences,” Jones added.
“In Gaza, lives hang in the balance.
“In Wokingham, jobs and businesses are at stake.
“Silence is not an option.”
