King Charles could find himself using portable lavatories during his anticipated state visit to the United States in April, a senior White House official has acknowledged.
Will Scharf, who serves as White House staff secretary, raised the prospect whilst addressing the National Capital Planning Commission on Thursday.
"I think it's notable that when the President of the United States of America flies to the United Kingdom, he's hosted at Windsor Castle," Mr Scharf said.
"And when, next year, the King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland comes to the United States, more likely than not, he will be hosted in a tent on the South Lawn with porta-potties. That, to me, is not a good look for the United States of America."
White House official warns King Charles may have to use 'porta-potties' if visiting US
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White House Staff Secretary and NCPC Chairman Will Scharf speaks during a National Capital Planning Commission
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Mr Scharf, who chairs the planning commission, made his remarks while advocating for President Trump's ambitious £297million overhaul of the White House.
The renovation project involves demolishing the East Wing to construct an expansive 90,000-square-foot ballroom capable of accommodating approximately 1,000 guests.
At present, visiting heads of state must be entertained in temporary marquees erected on the South Lawn, as the existing East Room lacks sufficient capacity for large gatherings.
Portable toilets are positioned nearby during such occasions to spare guests from walking back and forth to the main building.
The demolition of the East Wing of the White House
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The White House cited water damage and mould contamination as justification for tearing down the East Wing rather than preserving it.
Mr Scharf drew a stark comparison with the reception afforded to President Trump during his second state visit to Britain last September.
The American leader was transported around the Windsor Castle grounds in the Irish State Coach and reviewed an honour guard before witnessing a display by the Red Arrows.
That evening, some 160 guests from political and business circles gathered in St George's Hall for a formal state banquet.
Construction workers demolish what is remaining of the East Wing of the White House alongside the main Residence as demolition continues in preparation to build a new ballroom
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Trump has spoken warmly of the monarch, describing him as "a great gentleman and a great King" following the September visit.
The President is understood to be a considerable admirer of the Royal Family.
The King's trip, if going ahead, would mark the first visit by a British monarch to the United States since 2007, when the late Queen Elizabeth II was hosted by President George W. Bush.
Shalom Baranes, whose architecture firm is leading the ballroom project, shows a presentation during a National Capital Planning Commission hearing on White House East Wing renovations in Washington, DC, January 8
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The timing is expected to coincide with the 250th anniversary of America's declaration of independence from Britain.
However, the new ballroom being constructed to host foreign dignitaries will not be ready in time for the King's potential arrival, with completion scheduled before Trump's second term concludes in January 2029.
The visit would also represent Charles's first journey to America since Prince Harry relocated to California with Meghan in 2020, though any reunion between father and son is considered highly unlikely.