Negotiations over a technology deal between the UK and US have stalled due to stumbling blocks in wider trade negotiations between the two sides.
The Technology Prosperity Deal – which was billed as “historic” when it was unveiled during US President Donald Trump’s state visit in September – saw both countries pledge to co-operate in areas such as AI.
However, talks on the agreement are now being held up because of US concerns about what it considers to be wider UK trade barriers.
A government spokesperson said “our special relationship with the US remains strong and the UK is firmly committed to ensuring the Tech Prosperity Deal delivers opportunity for hardworking people in both countries”.
The New York Times – which first reported the story – said there were “broader disagreements” between the two sides, including over digital regulations and food safety rules.
The UK government did not comment on these specific claims. The White House has not responded to the BBC’s request for a comment.
When the deal was announced the government was keen to highlight the benefits it said it would bring.
“This Tech Prosperity Deal marks a generational step change in our relationship with the US, shaping the futures of millions of people on both sides of the Atlantic,” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said in a statement.
Technology secretary Liz Kendall said the partnership would “transform lives across Britain” and was a “vote of confidence in Britain’s booming AI sector.”
At the same time the deal was revealed, a series of US tech firms announced a flurry of investment in the UK.
A total of £31bn in planned spending was set out by tech giants including Microsoft, Nvidia and Google.
It is believed those investment plans are unaffected.
Google, Microsoft and Nvidia have also been approached for comment, but the firms have not yet responded to the BBC.
Nvidia boss Jensen Huang said in September his company’s UK investment reflected his belief it could become an “AI superpower” – an ambition championed by Sir Keir’s government.
