Reporter Becky Morton highlighted Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey’s call for the UK to confront President Donald Trump, labelling him as a “bully.” During the party’s spring conference in Harrogate, Sir Ed urged the prime minister to coordinate responses to US tariffs with the European Union and Canada. Trump proposed new tariffs to be imposed on 2 April, adding to the existing 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports affecting the UK. In response, Sir Ed proposed retaliatory tariffs on imports of Tesla electric cars, led by Elon Musk, who now advises Trump.
While Canada and the EU announced retaliatory tariffs against the US, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has opted for a “pragmatic approach,” leaving all options open regarding the matter. Discussions between the US and the UK for a potential trade deal continue, with Trump suggesting it could eliminate the need for tariffs. Sir Ed emphasized the importance of dealing with Trump from a position of strength rather than weakness, comparing it to standing up to a bully and demonstrating solidarity with allies against any threats.
Sir Ed condemned Trump for his actions toward Ukraine and Europe’s security, criticizing the US president’s special envoy, Steve Witcoff, for dismissing Sir Keir’s plan to back a ceasefire in Ukraine. The Lib Dem leader urged the UK to intensify support for Ukraine by freezing Russian assets in the country. Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressed concerns over British exporters facing higher tariffs and trade barriers, proposing adjustments to the Digital Services Tax to potentially avoid tariffs. Sir Ed cautioned against altering the UK’s tax policy to accommodate Trump and Musk’s interests, such as the ownership of the social media platform X.
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