Negotiations over a British-American trade agreement are under great pressure. According to British media, the Starmer cabinet is considering lifting import restrictions on certain American agricultural products. These would be products that do not meet the standards applicable in the United Kingdom.
The American demands reportedly include the acceptance of chicken washed in chlorine and beef from cattle that have been given growth hormones. American negotiators argue that such products are safe for consumption. British farmers disagree and fear unfair competition.
In several British newspapers, warnings have recently been voiced that Prime Minister Starmer is 'sacrificing British farmers' to secure economic concessions from Washington. Resistance is particularly strong in rural areas.
There is also political unrest over Starmer's possible change of course. Critics accuse him of 'betraying Brexit' because he would now be undermining the British rules and standards established after leaving the European Union.
The concerns of farmers arise against the backdrop of uncertainty in the global market. American President Donald Trump is currently increasing pressure on other countries with threatening import tariffs. This is prompting countries like the United Kingdom to rapidly seek new trade agreements.
Some observers suggest that if the United Kingdom allows American products, it might receive lower tariffs on British exports in return. An American lobbyist states that British consumers would then have to choose between higher food prices or the import of cheaper American meat.