Almost exactly one week ago, in the throes of Peter Mandelson’s sacking as British ambassador in Washington, the chances of a successful state visit by Donald Trump, or even Sir Keir Starmer’s survival as prime minister, were looking slim. Indeed, after the assassination of the US activist Charlie Kirk, there was some gossip about the visit being called off. The “unprecedented” and “exquisite” honour, as the president calls it, of his second state visit to the UK was definitely hanging in the balance.
Now the fever-dream that enveloped Westminster last weekend has evaporated and seems absurd. This is in fact the best possible evidence for how well the trip went – that it now seems pre-ordained, such was its order and harmonious ambience.
