The Monocle Daily How important is a US trade deal for the UK?
Apr 24, 2025
Leila Mulana-Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent, and Rachel Cunliffe, Senior Associate Editor of the New Statesman, dive deep into the intricacies of a potential US-UK trade deal. They discuss the complexities posed by Brexit, including agricultural standards and political relations under unpredictable US leadership. Additionally, they touch upon Jordan's evolving diplomatic role and its recent political shifts. The conversation also highlights societal issues such as public transport etiquette and the generational differences shaping contemporary behavior.
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Food Standards Block Trade Deal
- The main hurdle to a US-UK trade deal is the UK's unwillingness to accept lower US agricultural standards.
- This is a deep national position beyond party lines, not just a political preference.
Trade Talks Are Cultural Battles
- The US wants relaxed standards on issues like car safety and online protections, clashing with UK's protections.
- These conflicts reflect cultural differences making trade talks a cultural battle more than a political one.
UK's Trade Bridge Risk
- UK tries to bridge US and EU in trade but faces a risk of isolation from both sides.
- US's unpredictable trade stance causes UK to worry about the reliability of future agreements.