The UK government has dismissed calls for an official “Buy British” campaign in response to new US tariffs, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson stating the country remains “an open trading nation” and won’t dictate consumer choices.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves echoed the stance, calling the idea “inward-looking” and counterproductive, despite Liberal Democrat demands for a “Made in Britain” branding initiative to counter Donald Trump’s trade policies. The US recently imposed a 10% tariff on nearly all UK imports, on top of existing 25% duties on steel, aluminum, and cars.
While ruling out retaliatory tariffs for now, Starmer told MPs the government is keeping options open, preferring negotiation over escalation. “Jumping in with both feet” risks triggering a trade war, he cautioned.
However, ministers are reportedly revising procurement rules to favor British firms in government contracts. Reeves confirmed reforms are underway to help small and medium sized UK businesses secure more public sector deals, building on changes introduced earlier this year.
The Daily Telegraph suggests stricter “Buy British” requirements for major infrastructure projects including transport, wind energy, and defense could feature in the upcoming industrial strategy.
Critics argue the government isn’t doing enough to shield households from rising costs, but Reeves maintained that trade barriers would only worsen inflation and supply chain issues.
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