Obama flies in ahead of schedule as concerns grow over ash cloud

The US President had been due to arrive today for his state visit, but the decision was taken to bring forward the visit as the first commercial British flight cancellations because of the cloud were announced.

Speaking ahead of the President’s visit, Prime Minister David Cameron said he believed there was “an incredible alignment of views and understanding” between his administration and the White House on major world issues.

As well as being “special”, it was also an “essential relationship” between the two countries, Mr Cameron said.

He added: “We’ve got some proper, very long talks, discussions about Libya, Afghanistan, security issues, and also prosperity.

“The other big concern Barack and I have is making sure there are more jobs for our people, so getting trade going, making sure the economy’s moving, dealing with our debts and deficits.

“So a lot to talk about, two days to do that and obviously it’s great that he and Michelle are coming.”

Downing Street has also been preparing a barbecue for President Obama’s visit. “My daughter’s named it the Obama-cue. We had a try-out in the Downing Street garden yesterday,” Mr Cameron said.

There was also a “wet weather plan” in place he joked, adding he would be “there with the matches – ‘don’t worry Barack, it’ll all be okay in a minute’.”

The Prime Minister also paid lavish tribute to Mr Obama’s style, saying that as well as being “courageous” over issues such as the raid on Osama bin Laden’s hideout in Pakistan, which ended in the death of the al-Qaida terror chief, he was also “thoughtful, measured and serious”.