The UK’s manufacturing trade representative body Make UK, said the 10% tariff Donald Trump on UK exports will be “devastating” and “highly disappointing” given the country’s balanced trading relationship with the US.

Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK said it would impact directly and indirectly.

“The US President’s announcement of 10% tariffs on UK goods exported to the United States and 25% tariffs on British made autos, steel and aluminium is devastating for UK manufacturing”

“Even without a formal preferential trade agreement, the UK and US have for decades enjoyed a balanced trade relationship, with mutual collaboration and investment that has helped job creation, growth and shared endeavour on both sides of the Atlantic.

“It is highly disappointing that the strength of this relationship, at a time of where both countries need to boost shared growth, employment opportunities and innovation options, does not extend to enhancing free trade rather the reverse, the consequences of which will immediately harm the US consumer and economy too.”