King to host political leaders from across the UK at Windsor Castle

The King is due to host political leaders from across the UK at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, as well as devolved leaders from Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, have been invited the event, it is believed.

While there are reports that a number of the leaders will stay in Windsor, it is expected that Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill has decided to not spend the night at the royal residence.

She will be attending the event alongside deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly of the DUP.

A Sinn Fein spokesman said on Wednesday: “As First Minister, Michelle O’Neill has been invited to a political engagement in Windsor Castle, hosted by the British King today, Wednesday February 12.

Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly will be attending the event at Windsor Castle PA Media

“This event will be attended by the British Prime Minister, the First Ministers from Scotland and Wales, and the First Minister and deputy First Minister.

“This is an opportunity to advocate for the best interests of people and communities on our island.”

Sir Keir will be returning to Downing Street on Wednesday evening, it is understood.

Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the event, but it will not be the Prime Minister’s first attendance at such an event.

In April 2023, as Leader of the Opposition, Sir Keir attended a so-called “dine and sleep” evening, also at Windsor Castle, the first of the King’s reign.

Among other guests at the 2023 event were then-England football manager Sir Gareth Southgate.

Sir Keir Starmer attended a ‘dine and sleep’ at Windsor Castle in April 2023, while Leader of the Opposition PA Media

The late Queen also traditionally hosted such events at Windsor around Easter.

The King hosts dinners every year for guests across politics as well as the arts, science, charity and other sectors.

The event comes after Sir Keir and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner joined Charles on a rare joint engagement in Cornwall to see a sustainable housing project which was inspired by the monarch.

The King, Sir Keir and Ms Rayner carried out three engagements in Nansledan, a 540-acre extension to the seaside town of Newquay.