DONALD TRUMP’S punitive tariffs on a number of British exports were labelled an act of “economic vandalism” today, as well as a double blow for hundreds of British firms and thousands of jobs.

The US president has refused to remove high tariffs of 25 per cent on many goods, while withdrawing tariffs on shortbread and allowing a temporary reprieve for gin, salmon and blended whisky.

The US had imposed tariffs on more than 100 items last year in a spat over EU subsidies for Dutch company Airbus. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) ruled that state aid for Airbus to launch its A380 and A350 jets gave an illegal advantage over rival Boeing and authorised US retaliation.