Keir Starmer’s goal of securing a tech-focused trade deal with Donald Trump faces significant hurdles, primarily due to the strong influence of U.S. tech billionaires like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, who have made it clear they intend to push back against regulations in the U.K. and Europe. Starmer aims to strike a deal that would promote technological growth and deepen ties with the U.S., but tech industry leaders are pushing to eliminate or reduce the U.K.’s Digital Services Tax, a move that could complicate negotiations.
Musk, in particular, has been outspoken in his opposition to the U.K.’s online safety regulations, calling Starmer a threat to free speech. Zuckerberg has also voiced concerns over European censorship laws and the fines imposed on tech giants, positioning these issues as key points of contention in future trade talks. Furthermore, the U.K.’s efforts to regulate areas such as artificial intelligence, privacy, and competition are likely to be scrutinized by U.S. firms, who could use the trade negotiations to influence policy changes.
Despite these challenges, Starmer is pushing for a deal that focuses on “clicks and portals” rather than traditional trade areas like agriculture, seeking to leverage new technologies for economic growth. However, with the U.K.’s Digital Services Tax and other regulatory frameworks under threat, campaigners warn that the government may prioritize U.S. investment at the expense of long-term regulatory goals, potentially undermining efforts to protect online safety and ensure fair competition.