Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, is facing accusations of risking a damaging trade war with the European Union following his announcement of plans to strip EU citizens of their benefits entitlements in the UK.
The Core Proposal and its Immediate Impact
During a press conference scheduled for 10am on November 18, 2025, Mr Farage is set to outline a policy that would end Universal Credit payments for EU citizens. He has boasted that this move would save the UK treasury an estimated £6 billion.
However, this proposal would directly contravene the Brexit deal negotiated by the Conservative government. That agreement guarantees citizens from the EU who have secured settled status the right to claim certain benefits, a cornerstone of the post-Brexit trading relationship.
Breaking the Deal and the Consequences
By unilaterally ripping up this part of the treaty, Farage's plan would jeopardise the entire agreement. Political and economic experts have issued stark warnings that such an action would almost certainly spark a retaliatory trade war with Europe.
The consequences for British consumers and businesses could be severe. A trade war typically involves the imposition of tariffs and other trade barriers, which would likely push up prices on a wide range of goods imported from the EU.
A Crowded Political Stage
The controversial announcement comes at a critical time in the UK political calendar. With just over a week to go until Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivers her crucial Budget, the political spotlight is intensely focused on economic policy.
Adding to the day's political drama, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is also scheduled to hold a press conference, setting the stage for a clash of competing visions for the country's future just days before a major fiscal event.
