US Pauses UK Tech Deal Over Trade Barriers

Does the U.K. need to make good on its promises, or is the Trump administration pushing away a loyal ally?

Published 8 hours ago

US Pauses UK Tech Deal Over Trade Barriers

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Above: U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and U.S. President Donald Trump at Chequers, on Sept. 18, 2025. Image credit: Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-Trump narrative

If Britain wants to reap the benefits of the U.S. investment, it must do as it agreed and reduce the regulation and barriers that unfairly target American businesses. The U.K. cannot have it both ways — Britain has a fond place in Trump's heart, but his administration will not be cheated under a veil of pleasantries.

Conservative Post

Ian Miles Cheong on X

Anti-Trump narrative

Attempts to strong-arm close allies for personal benefit is yet another example of Trump's untrustworthiness. Britain is a sovereign nation and has the power to regulate and tax as it sees fit. With the EU presenting itself as a more stable alternative for the U.K., the Trump administration should think twice before pushing away a historic friend.

Liz Webster on X Tax Justice UK