Tue, 08 Apr 2025

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 Government rejects 'buy British' campaign to combat tariffs

Ministers say telling people what to buy is not the answer to US tariffs but they will back UK manufacturers.

* The UK government has declined to officially back a "buy British" campaign in response to Donald Trump's tariffs.
* Chancellor Rachel Reeves said such a campaign would be "inward looking" and not the way forward, while Prime Minister's official spokesman said the government "is always going to back British producers, British manufacturers".
* However, ministers are reviewing Whitehall procurement rules to give an advantage to British firms bidding for government contracts.
* The government will go further when it unveils its industrial strategy and public spending review later this year, with major public sector infrastructure projects told to "Buy British".
* Chancellor Rachel Reeves has rejected the idea of a "Made in Britain" logo and advertising blitz campaign backed by the Liberal Democrats.
* The UK government's priority is to secure a trade deal with the US, and talks with the White House are ongoing.
* The chancellor has reassured families and businesses that the government will "act decisively" in the national interest and has promised to support British businesses.
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