UK cabinet minister heads to Washington for trade, economy talks

18/3/2025 11:59

Britain's business and trade secretary Jonathan Reynolds travels to Washington on Tuesday to meet his U.S. counterparts in the hope of strengthening economic ties, as President Donald Trump continues to target long-standing allies with tariffs.



Britain's Department of Business and Trade said, Reynolds is due to meet U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.



London said last week it was disappointed with Trump's decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports but did not follow the European Union in retaliating.



Trump on Monday said he had no intention of creating exemptions.



Reynolds has previously talked of positive initial exchanges with U.S. administration officials. Prime Minister Keir Starmer last month appeared with Trump at a White House meeting that was cordial in tone - in contrast to other world leaders.