A Treasury secretary has confirmed Whitehall officials will “consider many different scenarios” amid concerns about the possible impact of tariffs during Trump’s new presidency.

Donald Trump “recognizes” the important relationship between Britain and America, Treasury Secretary Darren Jones said.

But there are fears about the potential impact on the UK economy if the next US president imposes tariffs, as he has previously suggested.

Mr. Trump has previously said he would increase rates on goods imported into the United States from around the world by 10 percent, and to 60 percent on goods from China.

Asked about possible tariffs on Sky News’ Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips programme, Mr Jones said: “Officials will consider many different scenarios but the Government’s position is that we support free trade and we support the trading relationship between the US and the UK.

“This is a very strong, very productive relationship for us and for the American economy, and of course we want to preserve and strengthen that for years to come.”

He added: “And I think President-elect Trump said that too. “He recognizes the important relationship that the United States has with the United Kingdom, and that is the foundation on which we will cooperate for years to come.”

A Government source confirmed on Saturday that officials would “continue” to “seek advice” to ensure Britain is in the “best possible position”.

“We look forward to working closely with President Trump’s team to strengthen UK-US trade relations to support businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” the source said.

When asked for a fuller response on Sunday morning, Mr. Jones declined to comment on “sensitive hypothetical future scenarios.”

He said: “You must forgive me, I am not a commentator, I am a Cabinet minister. “As I said, it is appropriate for officials to plan for different scenarios, but you are asking me to comment on sensitive hypothetical future scenarios.”

But New Jersey state governor Phil Murphy claimed his “gut instinct” told him President-elect Donald Trump could not impose tariffs “against allies like the United Kingdom.”

Asked about the issue, Mr Murphy, a Democrat, told the same Sky News programme: “Do I believe it? I am not sure.

“I think if you and I sat down and talked about the People’s Republic of China, I’d believe it.”

He added: “I don’t know whether that makes sense or whether he would even pursue that against allies like the UK.

“Something tells me no, but if I’m Chinese, I’m wearing my seat belt right now.”