UK races to implement US trade deal

THE UK Government remains "confident" it can implement its trade deal with the US in time to prevent Britain's steel industry facing even higher tariffs, a cabinet minister has said.

- CHRISTOPHER MCKEON and CAITLIN DOHERTY

US president Donald Trump exempted the UK from the 50% tariffs on steel and aluminium that came into effect yesterday morning, saying he would “provide different treatment” after the deal struck between London and Washington last month.

The decision means that British steel exports will continue to face a 25% levy from America, rather than the higher rate, while negotiations continue on bringing the agreement into effect.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “As a result of our landmark deal with the US, UK steel won't be subject to additional tariffs. My government will always protect British businesses and British jobs.”

But the situation could still change again in July, when the US is set to either increase the tariffs to 50% or introduce the quotas in the US-UK agreement, effectively eradicating the tax, depending on whether the deal is implemented.