PM Starmer Reaffirms Free Trade Commitment In Call With President Trump Amid Tariff Tensions

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed his government’s commitment to free and open trade while underscoring the need to safeguard national interests during a phone call with US President Donald Trump, Downing Street confirmed on Friday.

The conversation, which took place at midday, focused primarily on the ongoing UK-US trade negotiations, which both sides described as ‘productive’.

The two leaders expressed optimism about securing a trade deal in the near future, according to an official readout from 10 Downing Street.

Talks Extend To Global Security Concerns

In addition to trade, the pair exchanged views on several major international issues.

They discussed the situations in Ukraine and Iran, along with the recent military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

These discussions follow heightened global tensions and underline the broader scope of cooperation between the two countries.

Tariff Dispute Casts Shadow Over Trade Talks

The conversation followed the US administration’s decision earlier this month to implement sweeping tariffs on numerous global trading partners, including Britain.

Although President Trump later introduced a 90-day pause on some of the levies, he maintained a 10 per cent baseline tariff on all imports into the United States.

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Crucially, British exports—notably cars, steel, and aluminium—remain subject to 25 per cent tariffs if shipped to the US.

These developments have sparked concern within the British manufacturing sector, which fears long-term repercussions on competitiveness and jobs.

Washington Signals Trade Deal Optimism

Despite the ongoing tariff dispute, US Vice President JD Vance suggested on Monday that a UK-US trade deal remains within reach.

“There’s a good chance we can strike a deal,” he said, noting that Washington is working closely with the Starmer administration.

Adding to the diplomatic momentum, President Trump hinted on Thursday at a potential state visit to Britain in September, which could coincide with further trade negotiations.

First Direct Call Since Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ Tariff Announcement

The phone call marked the first direct communication between Starmer and Trump since the US president announced the latest round of tariffs on 2 April, dubbing it ‘Liberation Day’.

Since then, British officials have moved swiftly to engage with Washington.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to travel to the White House next week to further advance trade discussions and push for tariff relief.

Trump Says He’s ‘In No Rush’ For A Deal

Nevertheless, Trump struck a defiant tone on Thursday, telling reporters he was in ‘no rush’ to finalise any agreements due to the revenue being generated by the new tariffs.

“Lots of countries want to strike deals—frankly, more than I do,” the US president stated. “Agreements will come at a certain point.”

As negotiations continue, the UK government must navigate a delicate balancing act—defending domestic industries while pursuing a strategic trade agreement with its longstanding ally.