Keir Starmer has pledged that the UK government will step in to support key industries rocked by Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, starting with measures to ease the pressure on British carmakers.
Speaking ahead of a visit to the West Midlands, the prime minister will promise early action on the UK’s industrial strategy, including more flexibility around the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales. Smaller manufacturers like Aston Martin will be exempt from the target, and the sale of hybrids will be permitted until 2035 aimed at giving the auto industry more breathing room to scale up electric vehicle production.
The intervention follows the US imposing a 10% base tariff on UK exports and a 25% duty on British cars. Jaguar Land Rover has already paused US shipments as it assesses the financial hit. Other sectors expected to receive support include life sciences, with ministers planning to cut red tape and ease planning restrictions to boost investment.
“Global trade is being transformed, so we must go further and faster in reshaping our economy,” Starmer will say. “Now more than ever, UK businesses and working people need a government that steps up, not stands aside.”
Starmer spent the weekend calling European leaders to discuss the impact of the tariffs. A No 10 spokesperson said he underlined plans to strengthen the UK economy and diversify trading ties. The government is also pursuing trade talks with India and China, while hoping negotiations with Washington will eventually lead to reduced tariffs.
With nearly $5tn wiped off global markets since the tariffs were announced, ministers are focused on shielding major exporters such as Rolls-Royce, Land Rover and Vauxhall. The zero-emission vehicle mandate is expected to be relaxed to help the sector adapt to the transition.
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