'We've seen swift action' - West Midlands Mayor welcomes Prime Minister's boosts for businesses amid Trump tariffs

Richard Parker directly called on Sir Keir Starmer to take urgent steps to protect West Midlands manufacturing from global pressures, most notably the imposition of US tariffs.

Mr Parker, who met with the Prime Minister twice last week, also announced funding packages to support businesses and the appointment of an expert to carry out an assessment on challenges industries face.

The West Midlands is the UK region most exposed to new US tariffs, due to its high concentration of advanced manufacturing and significant exports in the automotive industry – both in car production and the wider supply chain.

The region exports £8.5 billion worth of goods to the United States each year, with over 60 per cent (£5.1 billion) of that in the automotive sector – making it the UK’s largest regional exporter to the US.

The US tariffs on the automotive sector of 27.5 per cent, combined with rising international subsidies and falling EV demand in Europe, has placed pressure on the region’s manufacturers.

During a visit to JLR, Sir Keir confirmed the Government would adopt a more pragmatic approach to the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, easing the pressure for the industry and supply chains.

He also said he was committed to securing the future of UK steel – a move essential for the West Midlands’ automotive, aerospace and defence industries.

Mr Parker said: “The West Midlands is the heart of Britain’s manufacturing industry, and vital to international trade, especially with the US.

“The decisions the Prime Minister has taken, firstly on the automotive sector and then on steel, release the pressure valve on our region.

“But this is about more than short-term fixes. We need long-term certainty.

“We need to secure our future by making sure we’re not reliant on imported steel and that our world-class automotive firms have the support they need to lead the green transition.

“That’s why I met with the Prime Minister twice last week, as well as the Chancellor, to make the case for the West Midlands.

“I welcome the fact we’ve seen swift action – including flexibility on the ZEV mandate and renewed backing for steel.

“These decisions protect jobs, boost confidence, and show that the government is willing to listen when regions like ours speak up.

“We now need to build on this momentum – with long-term investment, a proper industrial strategy, and a national plan for growth that puts the West Midlands at its heart.”

Steve Rigby, CEO of the Rigby Group, will lead a rapid impact assessment on the challenges and opportunities facing West Midlands industries – including the effect of global economic shifts and new trade barriers like US tariffs.

The Mayor said: “To do this job to the very best of my ability, I need the very best people around me.

“That’s why I’ve asked Steve Rigby to help us build a clear, evidence-based strategy to push for smart, strategic growth in the West Midlands.”

And, among the funding pots Mr Parker announced are £10 million announced for innovation and entrepreneurship, £15 million to help 1,300 businesses cut energy bills and improve competitiveness and £5.7 million to help more young people into good jobs

He said: “There are undoubtedly challenges ahead for our businesses and communities.

“But we’ll meet them with action, ambition, and a plan for inclusive growth that leaves no part of our region behind.”