Prime Minster Theresa May said she was "bitterly disappointed" over the US Department of Commerce proposal to impose the tax. She said the UK would work with Bombardier to protect "vital" jobs. The UK government and trade unions fear the imposition of tariffs could make the Canadian firm question whether to remain in Northern Ireland, where it employs 4,100 of its 28,000-strong workforce.
It appears that this move is not final, but maybe there were follow up reports reflecting a lack of options to negotiate a different rate, as the position going forward was presented
Sir Michael said during a visit to Belfast that "Boeing stands to gain from British defence spending" but that "this kind of behaviour could jeopardise our future relationship" with the firm.
"We don't want to do that. Boeing is an important investor in the United Kingdom; an important employer in the United Kingdom.
"But we would prefer this kind of dispute to be settled on a negotiated basis and we will be redoubling our efforts with the Canadian government to bring about a negotiated settlement."
The ball is still in play it seems, and there is time left on the clock.
(As to tariff wars, they seem to be lose-lose propositions in a great many cases).