Rachel Reeves has come under pressure not to “ruin” a US trade deal by getting too close to the European Union. The Chancellor is set to hold crunch talks with her American counterpart in Washington on Friday as the Government pushes for an agreement to reduce the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Senior politicians have warned that Britain’s future prosperity relies on a successful outcome. Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith said the Labour Government needs to “pull its finger out” and get a deal over the line as soon as possible. And Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said a pact with the world’s largest economy would be a “very, very big prize”.
But the arch-Brexiteer warned that Labour’s push for closer ties with Brussels risks scuppering a US deal.
Speaking to the Daily Express in Dover, Mr Farage said: “They’re in a slightly stronger position than we are, just given that they’re America. But we have advantages too. We have a president that likes our country, unlike the rest of Europe we have a pretty balanced pattern of trade with America, whereas they all run big surpluses with America.
“So it’s all doable but then she needs to rethink the other side of her life, which is she’s talking about supporting free movement of people under 30 with the EU, she’s talking about a reset with the EU.
“In the last few weeks, we’ve sort of harmonised as it were standards on foods, veterinary services, we’re talking about extending that. And the closer you get to the EU, the less flexibility you have to deal with other parts of the world.
“There is a big opportunity there and it’s worth remembering that the American economy has doubled in size in 15 years, doubled against the eurozone. So a deal with America is a very, very big prize, don’t let getting too close to the EU ruin it.”
Mr Farage, who is a close ally of the US president, said he would be “very happy” to help.
The Clacton MP had previously offered to build bridges between Mr Trump’s administration and Labour.
He added: “I’m still here if they want me.”
Mr Griffith condemned Labour’s actions so far, saying: “Securing a US trade deal should be Rachel Reeves’s number one priority. “So far, this Labour Government has done everything in its power not to get a deal – from waiting months to engage with Trump’s team to sacking our top negotiator.
“Until they pull their finger out, Britain’s car industry will continue to suffer, people will lose their jobs and the economy will continue to tank.”
Louise Hellem, chief economist of the CBI, urged the Government not to water down Britain’s “high standards”.
She said: “So far, businesses have strongly welcomed the Government’s cool, calm and collected approach to this unpredictable situation. At a time when economic growth is the name of the game, businesses would support a mutually beneficial UK-US economic deal.
“In all corners of the country, firms trade on the UK’s strong global reputation for high standards – whether on food, automotive, or online safety. These must not be open for negotiation and the Chancellor has been right to remain firm on the UK’s red lines.
“The Government should continue putting their best foot forward in negotiations, ensuring they deliver on their promises for a competitive and growing economy. From technology and R&D, to procurement and mobility, there are plenty of areas in which the important UK-US relationship can be strengthened.”