Donald Trump could offer asylum to British people in blow to Keir Starmer

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering granting political asylum to British citizens whom his administration describes as “thought criminals” in a major blow to Sir Keir Starmer. The plan would target individuals prosecuted in the UK for expressing opinions on controversial issues like immigration, gender and abortion.

Mr Trump’s team is exploring ways to extend refuge to people who have faced legal action for participating in peaceful demonstrations – particularly those protesting near abortion clinics or silently praying. The move shows a growing concern in his administration over what they view as free speech persecution in Britain. One case being closely watched is that of Livia Tossici-Bolt, who held a sign reading “Here to talk if you want” outside a Bournemouth abortion clinic. Another is Adam Smith-Connor, a UK army veteran convicted in 2022 for praying at a clinic.

Supporters of the asylum proposal have argued that these individuals are being punished for peaceful expression, turning Britain into a place where “thought crimes” carry legal risk, The Sun reported. However, critics have warned that such a move could strain UK-US diplomatic relations and politicise the concept of asylum.

Earlier this year, White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, was asked about the proposal during a press briefing. She said she had “not heard that proposed to the President,” but would raise the question with the national security team.

This is not the first time Mr Trump has tied asylum to ideology. His administration previously offered refuge to white South Africans who claimed they faced persecution at home.