We can’t alter Brexit deal to appease car industry, says European commissioner

Thierry Breton, the European commissioner for the internal market, said he could not favour one ‘category’ over another. Photograph: Spanish Eu Presidency/EPA

The Brexit trade deal should not be reopened just to satisfy demands from some sectors of the UK and EU motor industry concerned about looming tariffs on electric cars, Thierry Breton, the influential European commissioner, has said.

EU leaders have come under pressure to suspend 10% tariffs on electric car exports that are expected to begin in January under the Brexit trade agreement sealed by Lord Frost in 2020.