MP urges local businesses to contact him over tariff concerns

Local Member of Parliament Steve Witherden is urging businesses throughout Montgomeryshire to reach out to his office if they think they will be negatively impacted by the newly announced US reciprocal tariffs.

The appeal comes after US President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on goods entering the United States last week, triggering significant stock market falls not seen since the beginning of Covid-19 lockdowns and raising fears of a global trade war.

Whilst the UK has a relatively small goods surplus with the US compared to other nations, British exports will now face the global baseline 10% tariff rate. Additionally, UK car exports, steel and aluminium products will be hit with a more severe 25% tariff.

These new measures are expected to disrupt supply chains and reduce demand for British goods as American importers face increased costs. A recent snap poll by the British Chambers of Commerce found that 62% of UK firms with trade exposure to the US anticipate negative effects from these tariffs.

Mr Witherden stated: "I am inviting all businesses who think they will be affected by US tariffs on imports from the UK to get in touch with my office.

"I am under no illusions: tariffs will be extremely damaging to the UK economy and there is seemingly very little anyone outside of the Oval Office can do to make the US think again.

"It is crucial, however, for me to understand what is happening to local businesses and that our perspective informs a national response."

The MP noted that whilst the government remains in discussions with US officials and has indicated readiness to use industrial policy to protect UK businesses, he wants to understand the specific impact on the local economy.

"I want to understand in specific terms the likely impact on our local economy, and what exact issues companies expect, so that I can best represent businesses in discussions concerning mitigations," he added.

Local businesses concerned about the tariffs are encouraged to email steve.witherden.mp@parliament.uk.