The UK’s departure from the European Union has spared British businesses the harshest impacts of Donald Trump’s new global tariffs, according to Conservative politicians. While the US imposed stiff 20% duties on EU goods and a punishing 34% levy on Chinese imports, Britain faced a comparatively lighter 10% charge.
Andrew Griffith, the Shadow Business Secretary, called this disparity a “Brexit dividend,” arguing that remaining in the EU would have left the UK facing the same steep tariffs as Brussels. “Our Brexit freedoms have saved us from the worst,” he stated, noting the lower rate could protect thousands of British jobs.
The government struck a measured tone, with Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasizing efforts to negotiate favorable terms with Washington. Behind the scenes, Downing Street sees the UK’s preferential tariff rate as validation of Labour’s diplomatic approach during recent trade talks.
Former Conservative minister Kemi Badenoch offered her party’s expertise to help secure a comprehensive US-UK trade deal, though Labour sources quickly dismissed this, pointing out the Tories’ failure to deliver such an agreement during their 14 years in power.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to respond with “cool and calm heads,” framing the situation as an opportunity to demonstrate Britain’s independent trade capabilities. While acknowledging the economic impact, he stressed his sole focus would be protecting UK interests in negotiations with the Trump administration.
The development has reignited debates about Brexit’s economic consequences, with proponents arguing it provides flexibility in global trade, while critics maintain the UK still faces unnecessary trade barriers. As both British and American leaders position themselves for coming negotiations, businesses await clarity on whether the 10% tariff represents a temporary reprieve or the starting point for deeper trade tensions.
