Brexit has "saved" Britain from Donald Trump's trade war nightmare, a top Tory has claimed.
Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith hailed the UK's departure from the European Union after the 47th President slapped tariffs on nations around the world.
The UK was hit with a 10 per cent levy, significantly lower than the 20 per cent now facing the Brussels bloc and 34 per cent whacked on China.
In a lengthy social media thread, Griffith said: "US tariffs are disappointing news which will worry working families across the country. But our Brexit freedoms have saved us from the worst."
Sir Keir Starmer
GB NEWS
He added: "The silver lining is that Brexit - which Labour ministers voted against 48 times - means we face far lower tariffs than the EU: a Brexit dividend protecting thousands of British jobs and businesses."
Sir Keir Starmer could now look to take advantage of the UK's freedoms outside the EU by forging a closer trading relationship with the US.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “We will always act in the best interests of UK businesses and consumers.
"That’s why, throughout the last few weeks, the Government has been fully focused on negotiating an economic deal with the United States that strengthens our existing fair and balanced trading relationship.”
A Downing Street source also said the lower levy for the UK “vindicates our approach” after weeks of intensive diplomacy by Starmer and his Labour colleagues.
A group of pro-Brexit demonstrators outside the Houses of Parliament
PA
Leader of the Opposition Kemi Badenoch today placed herself as an asset to help Labour negotiate a deal with Trump.
"Leaving the EU has left us in a stronger position on trade," Badenoch said.
"We now have an independent trade policy but this only works if it is used properly by people who know what they’re doing. The only party with any recent experience of negotiating deals is the Conservatives.
"We are here and ready to help in the national interest. It’s time for the Labour Government to get a deep and meaningful trade deal with the US that removes these tariffs and delivers growth without compromising on standards."
However, Labour insiders fumed at Badenoch's inability to strike a trade deal during her stint as Business Secretary.
A source said: "They couldn't do a trade deal in 14 years, respectfully if they want to help they can support this Government's approach and stop carping from the sidelines."
Donald Trump shows off his tariff board
REUTERS
Responding to Trump's tariffs earlier this morning, Starmer vowed to respond with "cool and calm heads".
The Prime Minister said: "Last night the president of the United States acted for his country, and that is his mandate.
"Today, I will act in Britain’s interests with mine. Nothing else will guide me, that is my focus," Starmer added.
"Clearly, there will be an economic impact from the decisions the US has taken, both here and globally. But I want to be crystal clear: we are prepared, indeed one of the great strengths of this nation is our ability to keep a cool head."
