Overview

• Officials said a proposed move to reduce US tariffs on some British steel and aluminium to 0% under a small quota was paused at the last moment.
• Ministers are pursuing a permanent guarantee that US duties on UK steel will not exceed 25%, which the government presents as a relative advantage over countries facing 50%.
• The May UK–US framework to lower steel tariffs to 0% has not taken effect due to Washington’s worries about backdoor imports and strict rules‑of‑origin requirements.
• President Trump said before landing in London that the UK wanted a “better deal,” while Downing Street indicated talks continue without specific new commitments.
• Industry groups expressed disappointment over the shelved tariff‑free quota but said a 25% cap could provide clarity, as opposition parties accused ministers of overpromising.