Trump Says He Will ‘Take A Look’ At UK Tariff Plans

WASHINGTON, Feb 28 (Bernama-PA Media/dpa) -- US President Donald Trump has suggested he was considering whether to impose tariffs on the UK, saying he would “take a look” at the situation, reported PA Media/dpa news.

US tariffs on British steel imports are looming and Trump has hinted he could target the UK further.

Ahead of talks with the British Prime Minister Kei Starmer at the White House, Trump said he had a “warm spot” for the UK.

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Trump this week said the EU was formed to “screw” the US when it comes to trade and indicated he could impose 25 per cent tariffs on the bloc.

But he said on Thursday: “We’re talking about a very different place (UK).

“I have investments there, I own Turnberry, I own Aberdeen, and I own a great place called Doonbeg in Ireland.

“So, I have a great warm spot for your country.”

US plans to hit imports of British steel with a 25 per cent tariff are due to come into force on March 12 and Trump has also hinted at tariffs in retaliation for charging VAT on US goods.

UK ministers have suggested the UK could avoid US tariffs because America does not have a trade deficit with Britain, while it does have one with the EU.

Starmer said the UK is in a “different position” as its trade with the US is “fair and balanced.”

He said: “Our trade, obviously, is fair and balanced, and, in fact, you’ve got a bit of surplus.

“So, we’re in a different position there – and obviously we contributed hugely in relation to Ukraine.”

Trump said: “It’s going to work out.”

Asked if there will not be any sanctions on the UK, Trump said: “Well, I have to take a look.”

--BERNAMA-PA MEDIA/dpa