The Government is “in discussions” with the European Union over a steel tariff hike, the Prime Minister has said, as UK industry figures warned of an “existential threat”.
The European Commission has revealed plans to impose 50% tariffs on steel, double the current level of 25%, while reducing tariff-free import volumes to 18.3 million tons a year – a 47% reduction.
The commission is effectively matching the levy Donald Trump imposed on the EU.
The move will come as a further blow to British industry, which has already been hit by levies on steel into the American market.
As he travelled to India on a trade mission, Sir Keir Starmer was asked if he believed the EU would move forward with its plans to match Mr Trump’s steel levies, something which could threaten the survival of Britain’s steel industry.
Sir Keir replied: “Well, I think our position in relation to our steel industry is one of strong support as you saw from Scunthorpe and Port Talbot.
“In relation to the question of tariffs or other measures, as you’d expect, we are in discussions with the EU about this, as we’re in discussions with the US about it. So, I’ll be able to tell you more in due course but we are in discussions, as you’d expect.”
Pressed on whether the UK was seeking exemptions, the Prime Minister said he would not go into details but insisted discussions were taking place with the EU and US.
