Trump's Threat of 100% Tariffs on Foreign Films Sparks UK Industry Concerns

08-05-2025


The UK government is currently in 'active discussions' with the United States regarding President Donald Trump's proposal to impose 100% tariffs on films produced outside of America. Chris Bryant, a minister, described the situation as 'fluid' and emphasized the need for a 'calm and steady approach' to protect the UK's world-leading creative industries. The discussions aim to clarify the specifics of the proposed tariffs and explore potential exemptions to safeguard the sector.

Entertainment industry union BECTU has voiced concerns that such tariffs could severely impact the UK film industry, highlighting the international nature of film production today. Shadow culture minister Stuart Andrew questioned the government's preparedness, asking about impact assessments and contingency plans should the tariffs be implemented without exemptions. Bryant responded by noting the complexity of applying tariffs to services and the importance of maintaining international collaborations in film production.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey criticized Trump's proposal during Prime Minister's Questions, urging Sir Keir Starmer to stand up for the British film industry. Davey humorously remarked that Trump would lose in a confrontation with iconic British characters like James Bond, Bridget Jones, and Paddington Bear. Starmer, in response, advocated for continued negotiations with the US to reduce tariffs, emphasizing a pragmatic approach to protect national interests without alienating key allies.

The film industry's concerns extend beyond the immediate financial implications, touching on the potential difficulties of enacting such tariffs and their impact on freelancers in the UK. The situation remains under close watch as the UK government and industry leaders seek to navigate the challenges posed by Trump's proposal, aiming to preserve the vibrancy and global competitiveness of the British film sector.

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From Legal Battles to the Stage: Chris Brown's World Tour Proceeds Despite Pending Assault Case

{'$date': '2025-05-22T10:19:53.200Z'}


US singer Chris Brown has been granted bail by a London court, allowing him to proceed with his upcoming world tour despite facing serious assault charges. The 36-year-old artist, known for hits like 'Loyal' and 'Under the Influence', was required to pay a £5 million security fee as part of his bail conditions. The charges stem from an alleged unprovoked attack on music producer Abraham Diaw in a London nightclub in 2023, where Brown is accused of using a tequila bottle to inflict grievous bodily harm.

Brown, who was not present at Southwark Crown Court for the bail hearing, has not yet entered a plea. Judge Tony Baumgartner set the bail conditions, which include surrendering his passport except for tour-related travel. The R&B star's Breezy Bowl XX tour is scheduled to begin on June 8 in the Netherlands, with stops across Europe, the United States, and Canada, including several UK cities.

The singer's release on bail comes after a brief detention in Manchester last week, marking his first return to the UK since the incident two years ago. Initially denied bail last Friday, Brown was granted conditional release on Wednesday, with the court requiring an immediate payment of £4 million and an additional £1 million within seven days. His next court appearance is set for June 20 at Southwark Crown Court.

Following his release, Brown took to Instagram to hint at his upcoming tour with a post captioned 'From the cage to the stage. Breezybowl.' The post underscores the singer's readiness to transition from his legal challenges back to the music scene, as he prepares to entertain fans worldwide amidst ongoing legal proceedings.