On April 2nd, former US President Donald Trump announced major tariffs some as high as 50% on countries trading with the US. The European Union was hit hard with 20% tariffs on most of its goods. The UK got a lighter 10%. That might seem like a win, but it’s not a compliment it’s a warning.
So why did the UK get off easier? Because of Brexit. Leaving the EU gave the UK more freedom in trade, and that likely saved us from a harsher penalty. It also supported the argument of those who pushed for UK independence. But the warning behind this move is clear: Trump believes there’s no free trade without free speech. And under Labour, the UK is falling short.
The US government has raised concerns about freedom of speech in Britain. One example they pointed to is the case of Livia Tossici-Bolt a woman charged simply for quietly holding a sign outside an abortion clinic. She didn’t say anything; she just held a sign inviting conversation. Now she could go to jail. To the US, this isn’t the UK they know it’s Starmer’s UK.
This situation has damaged the UK’s image. Being grouped with countries like Costa Rica and the Congo in trade terms isn’t flattering. While Starmer talks about progress with a US-UK trade deal, reality paints a different picture.
The US isn’t pulling back because of money it’s because of values. And under Labour, the UK’s values look weak. The irony? Starmer spent years criticizing Brexit, but it’s Brexit that gave the UK enough independence to avoid the full hit of Trump’s tariffs. The EU, stuck in its red tape, wasn’t so lucky.
Trump’s message is serious. He uses tariffs to make a point not just about money, but about principles. If Starmer doesn’t act fast, the UK could find itself in a trade war it can’t win.
The UK government is now threatening to strike back with tariffs of its own on things like motorcycles, jeans, and guitars. But here’s the problem: retaliating only works if you have real power. And right now, Starmer doesn’t.
According to the OBR, Labour’s financial plans are falling apart. More taxes or spending cuts are likely on the way. And Trump’s tariffs are making things worse.
Even so, Labour continues to ignore the free speech issue denying that it has anything to do with trade, despite clear signals from the US. That’s out of touch with reality.
There was another path. A bold, free UK could have been a strong US partner. But Labour has chosen a safe, weak path full of rules and no backbone and it may cost Britain dearly.
Starmer says he’ll fight for the best trade deal. But if he won’t stand up for free speech, what will he fight for?
We may be out of the EU, but under Labour, it feels like we’re still being told what to do just by different people.
