A group of MPs has called for the UK government to meet with media and entertainment industry leaders to discuss a potential response to US tariffs,
Ahead of a possible announcement on a new US/UK trade deal, the Liberal Democrats warned that the so-called “James Bond Tax”, which would impose tariffs on the British film and TV industries, could pose an existential threat to the industry, and said a plan was urgently needed to lessen any impact.
Calling for a “Watch British” campaign to encourage audiences and broadcasters to choose British-made films, Liberal Democrat Culture Media and Sport spokesperson, Max Wilkinson MP, said: “The government must keep all options on the table to protect British jobs and national treasures like Paddington and Bond, including working with allies to draw up retaliatory tariffs. We also need to see measures to support jobs in the film industry, including encouraging the BBC and cinemas to play British-made films.”
The statement has received backing from Conservative MP Clive Jones, whose Wokingham constituency is home to a number of businesses within the industry. In a statement published in local media, Jones said, “Berkshire, the Hollywood of the UK, has a proud history of film-making, and is home to many important locations, like Shinfield Studios. As such, the film industry is a vital part of our community’s culture, and an important part of our local economy. Trump’s tariffs now risk wiping out this industry, which would affect many in Wokingham, Berkshire and across the UK. The government must act now to preserve and promote British film.”
