UK Signals Retaliation Is Possible as New US Tariff Policy Threatens Trade Stability
Downing Street warns that “nothing is off the table” in its response after Washington’s tariff shift unsettles a recent UK-US trade framework
The United Kingdom government has declared that “nothing is off the table” in its response to recent changes in United States tariff policy that have unsettled a bilateral trade understanding, even as officials emphasise a preference for dialogue and constructive engagement.
Downing Street’s statement came as President Donald Trump’s administration moved to implement a temporary 15 percent global tariff under Section 122 of the US Trade Act of 1974 following a US Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his previous tariff regime.
The UK government reiterated it does not want a trade confrontation but stressed it retains the option of reciprocal measures if the terms of the existing UK-US tariff arrangement are not honored and British industries suffer as a result.
Government spokespeople said that most elements of the sector-specific UK-US deal — including preferential terms for automobiles, steel, and pharmaceuticals — were expected to remain intact, but acknowledged continued uncertainty as discussions with American counterparts are ongoing.
Officials described the situation as evolving and under active review, noting that UK trade and business leaders are pressing for clarity and stability to avert damage to export sectors and broader investment confidence.
UK business representatives have indicated concern that a blanket 15 percent tariff could undermine competitiveness, despite exemptions negotiated last year.
While reaffirming the United Kingdom’s strong economic relationship with its closest ally, ministers stressed that they are prepared to consider all options to defend national interests.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle and US trade representatives have been in sustained contact to urge adherence to previously agreed terms of the tariff deal and to minimize disruption for exporters on both sides.
The UK approach continues to balance the priority of protecting its industries with a strategic focus on maintaining a cooperative transatlantic trading partnership underpinned by negotiated arrangements.
Downing Street’s statement came as President Donald Trump’s administration moved to implement a temporary 15 percent global tariff under Section 122 of the US Trade Act of 1974 following a US Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his previous tariff regime.
The UK government reiterated it does not want a trade confrontation but stressed it retains the option of reciprocal measures if the terms of the existing UK-US tariff arrangement are not honored and British industries suffer as a result.
Government spokespeople said that most elements of the sector-specific UK-US deal — including preferential terms for automobiles, steel, and pharmaceuticals — were expected to remain intact, but acknowledged continued uncertainty as discussions with American counterparts are ongoing.
Officials described the situation as evolving and under active review, noting that UK trade and business leaders are pressing for clarity and stability to avert damage to export sectors and broader investment confidence.
UK business representatives have indicated concern that a blanket 15 percent tariff could undermine competitiveness, despite exemptions negotiated last year.
While reaffirming the United Kingdom’s strong economic relationship with its closest ally, ministers stressed that they are prepared to consider all options to defend national interests.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle and US trade representatives have been in sustained contact to urge adherence to previously agreed terms of the tariff deal and to minimize disruption for exporters on both sides.
The UK approach continues to balance the priority of protecting its industries with a strategic focus on maintaining a cooperative transatlantic trading partnership underpinned by negotiated arrangements.
