Ministers brace for more Trump tariffs as UK races to agree US trade deal
Guardian1 day ago
UK: Downing Street Braces for Trump Tariffs as 'Liberation Day' Looms
Above: U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer depart following a news conference in the East Room at the White House on Feb. 27, 2025 in Washington, D.C. Image copyright: Andrew Harnik/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Years after Brexit, the promised U.S.-U.K. trade deal remains elusive, exposing the folly of betting Britain's economic future on American goodwill. Successive governments have clung to an illusory "special relationship," only to face delay, indifference, and now tariffs. Instead of waiting on Washington’s terms, Britain should prioritize reintegration with the EU, securing stable trade, investment, and regulatory alignment with its largest economic partner.
Right narrative
Brexit gave Britain the freedom to negotiate its own trade deals, and securing a U.S-U.K. agreement should be a top priority. Unlike the EU, which faces broad US tariffs, Britain has a unique opportunity to strike a fair deal, boosting sectors like financial services and tech. The U.K. can maintain high standards while expanding access to the world’s largest economy. A bold, independent trade strategy will secure long-term prosperity.