Theresa May REJECTS petition signed by 1.8 million people to scrap Donald Trump's state visit

Theresa May has officially rejected a petition signed by 1.8 million people calling for Donald Trump's state visit to the UK to be cancelled.

The government wrote an official response, saying they "recognise the strong feelings expressed by the many signatories of this petition", but did not support it.

The government responds to all petitions on the parliament.uk website which get more than 10,000 signatures.

The petition triggered a Parliamentary debate when it hit 100,000 signatures, which was expected to take place on February 20.

The Mirror contacted the House of Commons to ask whether the debate was still to take place, but they had not confirmed at the time of publication.

In their official response, the government wrote: "HM Government believes the President of the United States should be extended the full courtesy of a State Visit. We look forward to welcoming President Trump once dates and arrangements are finalised.

"HM Government recognises the strong views expressed by the many signatories of this petition, but does not support this petition.

"During her visit to the United States on 27 January 2017, the Prime Minister, on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen, invited President Trump for a State Visit to the UK later this year. The invitation was accepted. This invitation reflects the importance of the relationship between the United States of America and the United Kingdom. At this stage, final dates have not yet been agreed for the State Visit."

Over the weekend it was reported that Trump could be treated to a stadium rally during his visit - possibly at Wembley or a venue in Birmingham.

The government has not confirmed dates for the visit, but it is thought it is likely to take place in July or August.

(UKMirror)