UK in talks with US over ‘best possible deal’ for British firms amid higher tariffs threat

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Lisa O’CarrollFebruary 22, 2026 at 03:15 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

The UK government is in discussions with the US following a US Supreme Court ruling that challenged existing "reciprocal" tariffs, leading to President Trump's announcement of a potential 15% global tariff on all foreign imports. This new tariff could increase costs for UK and EU exporters. UK Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the uncertainty for British businesses but stated the UK expects its preferential trade arrangements with the US to continue. The UK aims to secure the "best possible deal" for its companies amidst this evolving situation. A planned EU parliamentary vote on the US deal may be postponed due to the uncertainty. Business leaders anticipate the UK will work to strengthen the existing Economic Prosperity Deal with the US.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Japan 30% Switzerland 30% Keir Starmer 40% British Chambers of Commerce 40% William Bain 40% Bernd Lange 50% Economic Prosperity Deal 60% Bridget Phillipson 60% European Union ×570% Donald Trump ×480% United Kingdom ×1090% United States ×990%

Keywords

tariffs 100% uk-us trade deal 90% trade policy 70% international trade 60% british businesses 50% economic prosperity deal 50% trade act 40% foreign imports 40%