WORLD OF PAIN

Blitz could cost 25,000 UK car jobs | Minister warns of serious moment

- BY GRAHAM HISCOTT & LIZZY BUCHAN

TODAY could be the day Britain finds out if its special relationship with the US is still intact as Donald Trump escalates his global trade war.

The maelstrom over import levies on goods is being predicted to cost over 25,000 jobs in the UK's car industry.

A report warns of a major hit to our car plants, putting at risk around one in five manufacturing roles in the sector.

Other British industries could also be reeling from Trump's "Liberation Day" wave of tariffs on scores of US imports.

Details are expected to be announced today and could apply immediately.

Britain's Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds called it a "very serious and significant moment" for the UK.

The US president has already confirmed an additional 25 per cent levy on all car imports, with no special deal for the UK despite ongoing talks.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves yesterday warned the Cabinet that trade tariffs will hit our economy, but added: "Securing a deal could mitigate some of those effects."

She also spoke to US counterpart Scott Bessent on Monday.