Residents urged to buy local in wake of Trump tariffs

Worcestershire Lib Dems are urging residents to buy local in the wake of trade tariffs announced by Donald Trump.

The US President announced a host of steep tariffs earlier this month including 10 percent on UK exports, plus 25 percent on all steel imports to the US.

Dan Boatright-Greene, the Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesman for West Worcestershire, said people should “rally round” local businesses to help them stay afloat and protect the county’s high streets.

He said: “Countless businesses across the county are terrified about the impending trade war, on top of the Government’s disastrous decision to hike national insurance.

“It is time for all of us to rally round our fantastic local businesses and Buy British to support them in their moment of need.

“We must show Donald Trump that here in Worcestershire we will not be bullied and stand up to his nonsensical trade war.

“This needs to include supporting our brilliant farmers who are at risk of once again being clobbered by a trade deal that effectively sells them out, just as the Conservatives did.

“Worcestershire’s food and drink industry is vital to our local economy and promoting our producers not only reduces the distances our food travels, but is also an opportunity to enjoy the fantastic food and drink that is produced in our county.

“From wine and beer to fresh vegetables and fine cuts of meat, Worcestershire has some of the best food in the country.

“It is not just the threat of the Trump administration’s tariffs that is causing anxiety for businesses but also the Government’s decision to hammer them with their misguided jobs tax in the coming days. All this spells out to be a double-whammy for our local businesses and we need to make sure we support them where we can.”