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UK Responds to Potential US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminium
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has urged the United Kingdom to take a firm stance against potential tariffs on British steel and aluminium exports proposed by the United States under President Donald Trump. The planned 25% import tax, scheduled to take effect on March 12, has sparked concerns among British lawmakers and industry representatives.
So far, the UK government has opted not to join the European Union and Canada in declaring immediate retaliatory measures against these tariffs. Sir Ed has expressed frustration over this approach, stating that “sitting back and hoping Trump won’t hurt us just isn’t going to work.” He emphasized the necessity for the UK to enter negotiations from a position of strength.
During a session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer underscored the importance of a careful evaluation of the situation. He noted, “But we will always put our national interest first, and steelworkers first,” as he addressed the potential impacts of the tariffs on the UK workforce.
The proposed tariffs could considerably affect the steel sector, where approximately 10% of British exports are directed towards the US. Industry group UK Steel has stated that the tariffs could lead to severe consequences for the sector, particularly for suppliers of specialized products who rely on the US market more heavily.
While European and Canadian leaders have clearly articulated their plans for counter-measures if the tariffs are enacted, the UK government has chosen to refrain from making any definitive statements about its response. This approach reflects its effort to maintain strong ties with the US while also seeking to improve its relationship with the EU.
Earlier in the week, UK ambassador to the US, Lord Mandelson, expressed his concerns regarding the tariffs but cautioned against an “overreaction” from the UK side.
‘Tesla Tariffs.’
In his PMQs remarks, Sir Ed suggested that Trump might need a reminder of who America’s true allies are, highlighting the historical cooperation between British and American forces during World War II. He contended that both Trump and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, who is allegedly influencing Trump’s policies, “need to hear strong measures and words, from even their allies.”
Following the session, Sir Ed criticized the government for allowing both Trump and Musk to disregard UK interests and advocated for the implementation of what he termed “Tesla tariffs” targeting Musk’s electric vehicle company as a form of retaliation.
He asserted, “The only way we can tackle Trump and Musk is by negotiating from a position of strength and showing that the UK will not be bullied from across the pond.” This statement reflects a strategic pivot by the Liberal Democrats, signaling an opportunity for a political narrative that positions them as a strong, anti-Trump party within the UK’s political landscape.
Sir Ed’s frequent references to Trump and Musk during parliamentary sessions indicate a deliberate effort to resonate with the electorate, addressing concerns over international trade relations and the implications for domestic industries.
Source
www.bbc.com