Downing Street has said that 'nothing is off the table' when it comes to the UK's response to Donald Trump's renewed threats of increased global tariffs. The US president has threatened to impose 15 per cent tariffs after a Supreme Court defeat, raising questions about the UK's preferential trade deal.
The prime minister's official spokesman stated that discussions with the US are 'happening at all levels' but did not rule out reciprocal action. 'Our approach to the US has always been pragmatic,' the spokesman said, adding that industry does not want a trade war and the focus is on constructive engagement.
Mr Trump criticised the Supreme Court ruling on Monday, claiming he can use tariffs in a 'much more powerful and obnoxious way'. The UK previously received a 10 per cent tariff rate and carve-outs for steel and cars, but these are now uncertain.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle spoke to US counterpart Jamieson Greer over the weekend, underlining concerns about further uncertainty and the need to honour the UK-US deal. The spokesman confirmed that UK teams in Whitehall and Washington are continuing engagement this week.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson refused to rule out retaliatory tariffs on Sunday, saying the government will 'always stand up for what's right for Britain' but prefers to work behind the scenes.
