Sir Keir Starmer is preparing to pursue a pioneering trade agreement with Donald Trump focused on digital services, according to Gareth Thomas, the exports minister.
The move comes amid a looming threat of global trade tensions, yet ministers insist there are “definitely possibilities” of forging lucrative ties with the world’s largest economy.
Mr Thomas said: “There are always possibilities of doing deals in the US, certainly around digitalisation and services. We’ve got a lot to offer and a lot of areas where we could work on, so there are definitely possibilities. We’ll have to see how those play out over time. But it’s in the US’s interests as well as the UK’s interests for us to work together.”
Government insiders suggest the Labour leader has already raised trade issues with Mr Trump, who in turn has hinted a deal can be “worked out” while claiming he and Sir Keir are “getting along very well”. Washington sources believe a partial agreement could be achieved within months, particularly if negotiations focus on technology, digital trade and services — the areas seen as most promising for UK exporters.
Britain’s bid to secure a comprehensive pact has faltered in the past, derailed by disputes over agricultural standards relating to chlorinated chicken and hormone-fed beef. An attempt to sign a full free trade deal with Mr Trump during his first term stalled once Joe Biden took office, prompting UK ministers to explore more limited arrangements.
Support authors and subscribe to content
This is premium stuff. Subscribe to read the entire article.
