UK Steel headlines: government moves to seize full ownership of British Steel amid energy and tariff pressures. Brief bio: British Steel has two eras—1967–99 (nationalised then privatised) and 2016–present (private firm).
The UK government announced a new steel strategy, increasing domestic production targets to 50%, reducing import quotas by 60%, and raising tariffs to 50%. The plan aims to support the struggling sector, protect jobs, and enhance national security, with up to a32.5 billion in funding and a shift to electric arc furnaces.
On April 2, 2026, President Trump signed executive orders imposing up to 100% tariffs on foreign-made patented pharmaceuticals that do not meet pricing or US manufacturing conditions. Companies with pricing deals and US production face zero tariffs; others face escalating tariffs over four years. The orders also revise tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper products to be based on full US market value.
The UK and EU are working to secure agreements on steel and electric vehicle trade rules. The EU is increasing tariffs on steel imports from July, while the UK aims to negotiate favorable quotas and tariffs to protect its industry. Both sides are exploring closer economic ties amid ongoing trade tensions.
A UK court has found a Border Force officer and a Hong Kong trade official guilty of assisting a foreign intelligence service by spying on Hong Kong pro‑democracy figures and others in Britain. The nine‑week trial, which has marked a rare conviction for Chinese espionage on British soil, will lead to sentencing for the two men in due course.