Trump University to Establish London Campus

The US President’s controversial for-profit university is to be given a new lease of life – in the UK. The original Trump University closed in 2010, but plans have emerged for a new campus in the British capital.

The Mayor of London's office is believed to have fast-tracked the planning application, identifying it as a fantastic opportunity to cement London’s status as a global business and educational hub.

Senior Conservatives have also welcomed the proposals, identifying Trump University London as an example of the kind of innovative ‘alternative providers’ the Government is seeking to attract through its new Higher Education and Research Bill.

Other sources suggest the campus is being viewed as a major diplomatic coup, post-Brexit and an indicator of the ongoing 'special relationship' between Britain and the US.

Details of teaching at the new Trump University have yet to be confirmed, but, like its predecessor, the new campus is expected to focus on property development and investment.

It’s understood the university will also carry out research in future, with plans for significant investment in new fossil fuel technologies and improved email encryption software.

If successful the campus will expand to offer a range of other qualifications. Plans have been put forward for a centre for Russian Studies and a Journalism School offering innovative postgraduate qualifications in social media, public relations and ‘fake news’.

It’s not yet been confirmed when the university will open, but Trump may be keen to use the occasion to fast-track - and simplify - his controversial plans for a state visit. The President is understood to have considered inviting the Queen to meet him at the “beautiful campus”. Sources also suggest the monarch may be offered an honorary Trump University degree.

Concerns have been raised over a possible conflict of interest with the President’s other duties and obligations, but Trump’s ongoing involvement with the campus is expected to be appropriately limited. Instead, the day-to-day running of the university is expected to fall to an appointed official.

Nigel Farage is understood to have put himself forward for the role of pro-vice-chancellor.