UK will not rush to respond to tariffs

DONALD Trump’s decision to slap tariffs on imports of steel from the UK will not trigger a “knee-jerk” response from the Government - despite warnings about the devastating impact on the industry.

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Trade minister Douglas Alexander said the Government would adopt a “cool and clearheaded” approach rather than rushing into retaliatory measures.

The steel industry body said Mr Trump’s announcement had taken a “sledgehammer to free trade”.

Ministers are holding talks with the industry before the commencement of the tariffs on US steel imports from March 12.