Sir Keir Starmer warned business chiefs that "clearly, there will be an economic impact" from Donald Trump's tariffs, but the Government would respond with "cool and calm heads".
Mr Trump has slapped a 10% tariff on US imports of UK goods as he confirmed sweeping import levies on countries across the world, hailing America's "declaration of economic independence".
Sir Keir told business chiefs in Downing Street that the US President "acted for his country, and that is his mandate.
"Today, I will act in Britain's interests with mine."
He said the UK was "prepared" and that "one of the great strengths of this nation is our ability to keep a cool head".
The Business Secretary said tariffs on the UK are a "disappointment" and "a challenge", but that the UK is in a "better position than a lot of other countries from what was announced last night, but I was still disappointed."
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