The US administration’s decision to impose global tariffs is a serious concern for many businesses in Cardiff East. At Prime Minister’s Questions, the Prime Minister made it clear that a trade war with the US serves neither the interests of working people here in the UK, nor those in the US.
This UK Labour Government will never play politics with people’s jobs. That is why the Prime Minister has taken a measured approach, ensuring that the UK is in the strongest possible position to navigate this unpredictable situation. Whilst we don’t want tariffs, securing a lower levy than other nations demonstrates that our strategy is working.
A sustainable trade deal with the US is our priority, and that means engaging in calm, pragmatic negotiations rather than knee-jerk reactions.
However, whilst our focus remains on securing a deal, we must also prepare for all possible outcomes. The Department for Business and Trade is launching a formal request for input on the impact of any such retaliatory measures on British businesses. This process, running until 1st May 2025, will allow UK businesses and other stakeholders to provide feedback on products that could be included in any UK tariff response, should it be determined that pursuing this avenue is in the best interests of the UK. Ensuring that businesses have a say in shaping our approach is a necessary step in keeping all options open.
If an economic agreement with the US is reached that removes these tariffs, this consultation will be paused, and any related measures will be lifted.
Our UK Government trade teams will continue to hold constructive discussions in the coming weeks, working towards a broader UK-US economic prosperity deal. We will only agree to a deal that aligns with this UK Labour Government’s mission to ensure economic stability for the British people.
If you’re concerned about how this affects you, please contact my office using jo.stevens.mp@parliament.uk or visit https://www.great.gov.uk/.
To take part in the Department for Business and Trade’s consultation visit:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/request-for-input-on-potential-uk-measures-in-response-to-us-tariffs