How does Starmer keep Trump’s US and the EU sweet?
Feb 3, 2025
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Join Sam Coates, Sky News' deputy political editor, and Mark Stone, US correspondent, as they dissect UK politics in the shadow of Donald Trump's unpredictable diplomacy. The discussion unveils how Sir Keir Starmer navigates the twin pressures of US tariffs and EU relations, emphasizing the challenges of forging trade deals post-Brexit. They explore the complexities of aligning with both the US and EU while addressing the implications of China’s rising influence on global politics, raising questions about Starmer's diplomatic strategy.
Keir Starmer's foreign policy aims to balance relationships with both the US and the EU while navigating Brexit challenges.
The conflicting regulatory standards between the US and EU create significant obstacles for the UK's trade negotiations and future agreements.
Deep dives
Implications of US Tariffs on UK Trade Policy
The potential introduction of US tariffs by Donald Trump poses significant challenges for the UK's trade strategy. Trump has threatened tariffs on Canada, China, and the EU, creating uncertainty for UK trade as Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks closer ties with both the US and the EU. Experts suggest that attempting to navigate relations with all three parties simultaneously could be impractical, given the conflicting standards and interests. The UK government hopes to pursue a favorable trade agreement with the US, aiming for low or no tariffs, while simultaneously evaluating its relationship with the EU.
Balancing Relationships: Starmer's Delicate Diplomatic Position
Keir Starmer's approach to foreign policy involves a tightrope walk between the US and the EU, as he grapples with the implications of Brexit. Starmer's desire for a closer connection to the European Union could complicate efforts to secure a trade deal with the US, which has different regulatory standards. The mixed signals from Trump, who has at times expressed admiration for Starmer, add another layer of complexity to these diplomatic interactions. As Starmer navigates these relationships, UK officials remain wary of the unpredictability characteristic of Trump’s administration.
Trade and Regulatory Standards: A Complicated Landscape
The discussion around trade relationships highlights a fundamental tension between US and EU regulatory standards, particularly concerning food safety and automotive regulations. While the UK may benefit from a closer alignment with US trade practices outside the EU, such alignment could undermine previous trade relationships with Europe. Starmer's potential pivot back to EU standards may invite scrutiny from the US, particularly if it contradicts Trump’s agenda of increasing American exports. The intricate balance of trade negotiations underscores the difficulty of finding a political solution that satisfies both American economic interests and European regulatory concerns.
After having introduced trade tariffs on Canada and Mexico over the weekend, President Donald Trump is now threatening import taxes on EU goods. He has, however, said the UK would stay tariff free “for now”.
Sir Keir Starmer says Britain won’t need to choose between the two, saying it’s important to work with both on areas including trade and security.
On the Sky News Daily, Niall is joined by our deputy political editor Sam Coates and US correspondent Mark Stone to break down how Starmer might be able to navigate the push and pull between the EU and Trump, for Britain's economic future.
Producer: Alex Bishop Editor: Philly Beaumont
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