Exports: Impact of US Tariffs

23 Apr

Question

The session on "Exports: Impact of US Tariffs" revolved around the potential impact of the US-imposed tariffs on Scottish exports. Notable discussions centered on the response strategies by the UK Government and focused particularly on industries like Scotch whisky, a significant contributor to Scottish exports. The debate emphasized the importance of diplomatic negotiations with the US and highlighted the UK's commitment to supporting Scottish industries in face of these economic challenges.

The debate began with David Mundell querying the assessment carried out by the UK Government regarding US tariffs' impact on Scottish exports. Ian Murray reassured the chamber of ongoing negotiations between the UK and US to mitigate potential negative impacts. He highlighted the considerable share of Scottish goods exported to the US in recent years and asserted the Government's ongoing support for the industries.

12.3%

Percentage of goods exported from Scotland to the United States in 2024.

Mundell and Murray's exchange addressed the concerns about how the Trump Administration might alter the economic landscape for Scottish businesses. Murray reiterated the UK's engagement with industry representatives and stakeholders, emphasizing that the Government's cautious and steady approach is welcomed by many businesses.

3 April

Date when the Business and Trade Secretary made his statement to the House supporting industries across the UK.

Douglas McAllister articulated support for the Government's strategy, praising the responsible and considered methods being employed to safeguard UK and Scottish economic interests against the US tariffs. He contrasted this with the approach of the Opposition, whom he accused of prioritizing superficial publicity. The session reflected broad support from the UK Government for Scottish exports, particularly whisky, amidst the potential complications posed by US policy changes.

Tartan Week

Event when Ian Murray visited Washington and New York to advocate for Scotch whisky and other Scottish businesses.

Outcome

The debate concluded with a consensus on continuing negotiations with the US and exemplified the merits of the current approach being predominantly supported by members present. The session tasked the Government with maintaining its diligent advocacy for Scottish industry interests.

Key Contributions

David Mundell

Conservative

Raised questions about the impact of US tariffs on Scotland's exports.

Ian Murray

Emphasized the Government's focus on negotiating a deal with the US.

Douglas McAllister

Labour

Welcomed the Prime Minister's pragmatic response to the tariff situation.

Original Transcript

David Mundell

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale

Con

Question

UIN: 903745

6. What assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of US tariffs on Scotland’s exports to that country.

David Mundell

May I associate myself with the comments about Pope Francis and Christina McKelvie, and wish you, Mr Speaker, a happy St George’s day? It is very important that we all celebrate our national identities but still come together as one United Kingdom.

I hope that the Secretary of State and I were not too optimistic in our last exchange about trade with the US, in which we hoped that the Trump Administration would be a boost for Scottish business in the United States.

What is he doing in the UK’s discussions with the United States to ensure that specific Scottish interests, such as those of the whisky industry, are part of the arrangements?

Ian Murray

As I have said at the Dispatch Box before, it is vital that we do all we can to strengthen our diplomatic, cultural and business ties with the United States.

I was in Washington and New York for Tartan Week in the week when tariffs were imposed on the rest of the world, and I made the case for Scotch whisky and Scottish businesses in particular.

We are engaging with Scottish exporters and industry representatives to assess the potential impact of US tariffs, and remain in contact with US counterparts. Our pragmatic and calm approach has been overwhelmingly welcomed by businesses and industry.

We will not address this important issue in a knee-jerk way to get retweets, unlike some others in this House.

Douglas McAllister

West Dunbartonshire

Lab

Will the Secretary of State join me in welcoming the pragmatic and calm approach of our Prime Minister to this issue? He is working in the clear interests of businesses and consumers, in contrast to Opposition Members, who seem interested only in social media and quick headlines.

Ian Murray

I could not agree more with my hon. Friend. The pragmatic approach of the Prime Minister and this Government to this issue has been welcomed by industry and businesses right across the United Kingdom. That is in the national interests of the UK.

We work very hard together to make sure that the impacts of US tariffs on the UK are not as bad as we thought they might be.

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