Starmer and Trump finalise UK–US trade deal at G7, but steel tariffs still on hold
At the G7 summit in Canada, UK PM Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump inked a bilateral trade deal covering the aerospace and automotive sectors. US tariffs on British aerospace goods are removed entirely, while auto tariffs are reduced from 25% to 10% for up to 100,000 vehicles annually.
However, UK steel exports remain subject to a 25% tariff—temporarily lower than the US’s global 50% rate—with discussions continuing around quotas and supply-chain security due to Chinese ownership concerns at British Steel. Trump praised the pact, stating the UK is “very well protected…because I like them,” though he mistakenly referred to it as an EU deal. Further talks at G7 will address potential new Russia sanctions and steel quotas.
Read a full WTX News report on the UK-US trade deal
🔁 Reactions:
- Government (Starmer/X): “A real sign of strength for UK business and British jobs in aerospace and auto.”
- Opposition (steel unions via TUC): “Vital that British steel secures zero tariffs and clear quota rules—still hope to go.”
- Viral/Public (economist commentator): “Auto and aerospace wins, steel left hanging—this deal is a half‑step, not a leap.”
📰 Bias Snapshot:
- The Guardian/Reuters/AP offer clear, fact-focused coverage—detailing tariff cuts, remaining steel issues, and economic implications—without editorial flourish.
- Wall Street Journal highlights mutual benefits and political theatre—Trump dropping papers, mutual praise—but notes incomplete sectors.
- City AM underscores the deal’s importance for industry and diplomacy, while framing Trump and Starmer’s relationship as amiable, yet cautious on steel
📊 Sentiment: Neutral–positive.