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Is Trump a ticking time bomb for the UK, or could his controversial policies bring unexpected benefits? From climate deals to military spending, the jury’s out on what his impact on us will be
Some Mirror readers are convinced that Donald Trump’s US presidency will cause ‘untold damage’ to the UK – while others think his tenure could mean ‘more good than bad’ for us in the long run.
For such a divisive politician, it isn’t surprising that readers were largely split when we asked Are you worried about what Trump means for the UK? A sizeable 2,805 said yes, they were worried, while 2,218 said no, they weren’t worried.
The fiery Republican’s second time at the helm has already thrown up some real concerns. Take the withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement – that’s a massive blow to global environmental efforts. People in the UK are rightly worried about what it means for our planet’s future. After all, we’ve made some huge strides in addressing climate change, and Trump’s stance could very well set us back.
Then there’s the whole idea of a free trade deal with the NHS, which could see increased drug prices and open up the healthcare system to more private operators. Could the next few years spell the end of our healthcare system as we know it?
But it’s not all doom and gloom. There are some who believe Trump could do more good than harm for the UK, particularly when it comes to military spending. Trump’s policy of increasing defence budgets could actually benefit the UK, especially if it leads to a stronger NATO and more military collaboration across the Atlantic. But what Trump gives with one hand he could take away with the other, as Head of Department of International Politics at City, University of London, Professor Inderjeet Parmar points out: “Trump’s cuts in military aid to Ukraine might require more UK spending to aid Ukraine.”
In the end, Trump’s influence could play out in a lot of ways for the UK – some good, some not so much. Only time will tell whether his policies will ultimately help or harm. But whatever happens, it’s clear we’re in for a bumpy ride.
Many readers commented on our initial story, here’s just a selection of what some of you had to say:
Polly86: “Nothing can be done about what Trump will do. It certainly won’t be life-changing for myself. He is American, we have our own country that needs to be sorted out.”
Iron57: “There isn’t – and will not be – any special relationship with America.”
Swilliam: “[Trump] is looking after his own people first, this is a real leadership and prioritising what is right for your country, something our government know nothing about at all.”
Israfeel: “He will do what is best for the US. That is what we should be doing, too.”
Skinnygenes: “Trump has a soft spot for Britain, but why would he throw us a bone?”
Charleygordon: “He’ll do more good for our country than bad, we usually follow the US trends so hopefully our own society will improve.”
Droolon: “All you see is the Americans cheering Trump. Starmer has never been cheered.”
Scar84: “I prefer Trump and a booming America to the UK Labour Party.”
Onc: “The Tories crashed the UK, not Labour. And Trump will cause untold damage.”
Ob1johnny: “This is only the start of the chaos [Trump] is going to cause.”
Clobber2: “Whatever a country’s problems, fascism is never the answer.”
WendyRoss: “God help America with that comic at the reins.”
What do YOU think? Do you agree with readers’ comments above? Take our poll and have your say in the comments.
