This creates an immediate problem for the United Kingdom. America, which already has a trade surplus with the United Kingdom, is not about to grant a trade deal that showers money on the United Kingdom without asking for a lot in return. And Washington’s demands may not be palatable, most notably on agricultural goods, including food, and health care.

“The US’s priorities would be quite difficult for the UK to take on board because they focus on agricultural goods and medicines procurement,” says Sam Lowe, a senior research fellow in trade at the Centre for European Reform.

These demands play into the hands of people who oppose the idea of a trade deal with the United States, as they confirm their two greatest fears.