VOLCANIC ASH FEARS:US PRESIDENT Barack Obama, who left Ireland for London earlier than planned because of fears that volcanic ash could upset his travel plans, last night stayed at the US ambassador to London's Regent's Park residence, rather than arriving at Buckingham Palace ahead of his scheduled midday arrival time today.
Speaking in Dublin last night ahead of Mr Obama’s departure for Stansted Airport, where he was met by US ambassador, Louis Susman, White House deputy press secretary Josh Earnest said: “Due to a recent change in the trajectory in the plume of volcanic ash, Air Force One will depart Ireland for London tonight.
“The schedule for tomorrow [today] will proceed as planned,” he said.
Today, he will meet with Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, who had been due to welcome him at Stansted, after he arrives at Buckingham Palace, where he will be greeted by Queen Elizabeth II.
An early arrival at Buckingham Palace would not have been regarded as proper, so Mr Obama last night stayed at Winfield House, the mansion set in 12 acres in Regent’s Park, which has been the official residence of the US ambassador since 1955.
A 21-gun salute will be given in Green Park and at the Tower of London, before Mr Obama, accompanied by Prince Philip, reviews a guard of honour.
After a private lunch at Buckingham Palace given by the Queen, Mr Obama and his wife, Michelle, will view an exhibition of American-related items from the royal collection and royal archives.
Later, the couple will visit Westminster Abbey where the president will lay a wreath at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior.
This evening, Queen Elizabeth will host a state banquet in Buckingham Palace in honour of the president.
