GB News came to an abrupt halt for a breaking update on Labour’s reaction to President Donald Trump’s shockwave tariffs, which have caused major turmoil across global stock markets. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stepped up with a promise that the UK’s response would be measured, describing it as a “cool-headed” plan aimed at protecting British carmakers without fanning the flames.
Reeves addressed the fallout in a speech to Jaguar Land Rover workers in the West Midlands, trying to strike a tone of reassurance as market jitters continued to ripple. She made it clear Labour wasn’t interested in tit-for-tat politics. “With this government and with me as Chancellor, we have your back,” she said, trying to reassure manufacturers nervous about the impact of Trump’s sweeping trade move, reported the Express.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer also weighed in, pledging “bold changes” in response to the tariffs – including a relaxation of current rules around electric vehicles to help ease the pressure on the UK auto industry.
But while Labour’s message was all about steady hands and calm responses, the reaction online wasn’t quite so kind. Viewers took to X (formerly Twitter) in droves – and many weren’t convinced. One user slammed the speech, posting: “More buff and bluster from the PM and @RachelReevesMP but nothing of any real substance. Starmer talks about the ‘huge challenge’ facing us yet fails to put anything forward to change the tide. Empty words from a shallow and empty hack.”
Another commenter echoed the mood, writing: “Panic is starting to settle in with @RachelReevesMP & @Keir_Starmer.” And a third didn’t hold back, declaring: “With Reeves as Chancellor, we’re finished. She is absolutely hopeless and hasn’t got a clue.”
It’s clear Labour’s attempt to come across as calm and in control is landing differently depending on who you ask. For some, it’s a smart contrast to Trump’s dramatic manoeuvre. But for others, the messaging just isn’t cutting through – especially with real economic anxiety hanging in the air.
As the tariffs bite and businesses brace for the fallout, all eyes are on whether Labour’s “cool-headed” stance will hold up under pressure – or if the public starts demanding something a lot more forceful than speeches and slogans.
