In substance, Trump’s approach to China largely resembles that of his Democratic adversaries. The main difference, however, is the furious public reaction that inevitably accompanies the larger-than-life entrepreneur’s displeasure.

“If he has a particular objective, and it doesn’t perfectly match yours, you know from the start you’re not going to win,” said a former Downing Street aide who dealt with Trump under the former Prime Minister. Therese May. The aide, like others in this story, spoke on condition of anonymity to be candid about Trump.

Nadia Schadlow, a former deputy national security adviser for strategy under Trump, warned that Britain’s adoption of a different approach to China than Trump’s “could have a knock-on effect.” negative training on different aspects of the relationship.

Whether Trump or his Democratic opponent Kamala Harris wins next month’s presidential election, both will expect “solidarity” in their battle with Beijing, said Kerry Brown, a professor of Chinese studies at King’s College London.

“The problem is there is predictable pressure under Harris,” he said, “but unpredictable pressure under Trump.”

Not gentle, honest

Labor insists its approach to China remains tough. But the hawks are still scared.