Overview

• US President Donald Trump has imposed a 10% tariff on UK exports, demanding the UK allow imports of chlorine-washed chicken to secure tariff relief.
• The UK government, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, has firmly rejected the demand, citing commitments to uphold British food safety and farming standards.
• Public opposition to chlorine-washed chicken remains strong, with 80% of Britons against its import according to recent polling data.
• Critics argue that chlorine-washing poultry masks lower hygiene standards earlier in production, while the US defends the practice as a safe measure to reduce pathogens.
• UK farming groups warn that accepting US agricultural imports under these terms could undermine domestic farmers and food security.