Even for two nations intertwined in the ‘Special Relationship’, it was a very odd moment.
As Donald Trump and Theresa May met for the first time this week, the world was watching for signs of how well they would get on.
It appears that the pair exceeded expectations after they were photographed on Friday, walking hand-in-tiny-hand, along the White House colonnade.
Since the photo emerged, Downing Street and Washington sources have stated that their embrace was not a gesture of genuine affection, but a result of a bizarre phobia that President Trump has.
According to government sources, Trump has a fear of slopes and stairs, and this has been suggested as the reason why he reached out for Theresa May’s grasp.
The leaders did traverse a slope in the colonnade, which is where they were photographed holding hands. For those that are curious, the fear is a recognised condition called bathmophobia.
Downing Street officials appear to have been particularly keen to mention that their embrace was not a sign of overfamiliarity between the leaders.
https://twitter.com/LiamLondon/status/825608536101101570
Since their meeting, the British Prime Minister has been strongly criticised for not condemning Trump’s recent executive order which restricted immigration from several Muslim countries.
In fact, The Observer were extremely critical of May as seen by their front page this morning.
https://twitter.com/RichieMcCormack/status/825454189216153600
Various high-profile UK nationals are also likely to be caught up in the ban, including those with dual-citizenship. In fact, one of Theresa May’s own MPs, Nadhim Zahawi, has already tweeted his displeasure.
After growing public criticism of her stance, the British Prime Minister issued a statement last night saying she “does not agree” with Trump’s ban and would make representations to the US government on behalf of British nationals effected by it. “If there is any impact on UK nationals then clearly we will make representations to the US Government,” a spokesman said..
The First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, and the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, have also expressed their displeasure with Trump’s executive order.
To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 28, 2017
👇#WelcometoScotland too. https://t.co/ICmmBgr8Rf
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) January 28, 2017
I'm a British citizen & so proud to have been welcomed to this country. Sad to hear ill be banned from the USA based on my country of birth
— Nadhim Zahawi (@nadhimzahawi) January 28, 2017
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