It is not a state visit. That will come later. It is not even a formal political engagement. Rather, it is a private golf tour – albeit somewhat distinctive in that the courses are owned by the guy on the tee.

Still, next weekend’s Scottish tour by Donald Trump, now confirmed by the White House, presents opportunities and challenges for both the Prime Minister and the First Minister.

Such a dilemma is common in politics, particularly when one is dealing with such a controversial figure. How, exactly, should one respond to President Trump?

Turning from the green to the Greens, a ready answer. Patrick Harvie said there should be a political boycott of the President, accompanied by vocal protest.

There could be no excuses, Mr Harvie averred, for “trying to cosy up” to the President’s “increasingly fascist political agenda”.

I note that perspective and acknowledge that it will be shared by some activists, particularly on the Left. However, in all frankness, that response is not seriously available to elected government leaders like Keir Starmer and John Swinney.

Donald Trump was legitimately chosen as the 47th President of the USA. Kamala Harris was clearly defeated. Individuals may regret the outcome, but the people have plainly spoken.

Now, one might argue that Donald Trump was not so ready to accept the result when he lost in 2020. But instead of aping that behaviour, it is crucial to endorse the verdict of the people when it is so visibly expressed.

It is my firm understanding that John Swinney never contemplated the notion of boycotting the President. Rather, he will meet Mr Trump in the North-east in order “to promote........

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