The British and American governments are in urgent talks to avoid a trade war

British Treasury Secretary Reeves said Britain was holding urgent talks with the U.S. government to avoid being hit by President Donald Trump's plans to impose additional tariffs.

On Thursday, Reeves said, "We are currently in intensive discussions with the U.S. administration to prepare for a tariff increase next week." We want to make sure trade flows between the United Kingdom and the United States continue to be strong."

Reeves said Britain did not want an escalation of the trade war. She told Sky News: "We don't want to do anything at the moment to escalate these trade wars. We want a better trade relationship with the United States."

On Wednesday, Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on the auto industry. The tariffs, which will be imposed on April 3, affect foreign-made cars and light trucks. Trump has also threatened to impose reciprocal tariffs on April 2.

Britain's auto industry trade body has urged the United States and Britain to reach a deal to avoid Trump's "disappointing" tariffs on foreign-made cars.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said in a statement late Wednesday: "The industry is urging the UK and the US to come together immediately and reach a deal that works for everyone."

He also pointed out that the UK and US car industries have long enjoyed fruitful cooperation, with US consumers favoring cars made by iconic British brands and thousands of British car owners buying American-made cars.

"Instead of imposing additional tariffs, we should be exploring how we can create opportunities for UK and US manufacturers as part of a mutually beneficial relationship that benefits consumers and creates jobs and growth on this side of the Atlantic."