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Two-faced Theresa May lashed out tonight after Brussels announced tough new tariffs to protect British steel.

The hypocritical Prime Minister said she was “disappointed” at a new EU deal to bring in higher tariffs on cheap Chinese imports.

The Tory Government has been blocking the plan for years, as it believes free trade is more important than protecting British workers.

But EU nations today out-voted Britain and agreed a new system to reform the EU’s controversial ‘lesser duty rule’ which has prevented higher tariffs being introduced across Europe.

“This is a major breakthrough,” said Peter Ziga, minister for trade in Slovakia, which drew up the proposals.

“Our trade defence instruments have remained largely the same for over 15 years - but the situation on world markets has changed dramatically.”

(Image: Paradzina)

But incredibly Mrs May said she was “disappointed” at the deal.

“We’re disappointed,” her spokesman told the Mirror.

“We don’t think it’s a decision that reflects a free and open approach to trade.

“We’ve supported the lesser duty rule because we believe it provides protection to European producers but also provides users access to cheaper products.”

At the last EU summit in October, Brussels boss Jean-Claude Juncker blasted Mrs May for her “naive” support for free trade while thousands of tons of cheap Chinese steel are flooding European markets and costing local jobs.

(Image: PA)

UK Steel chief Gareth Stace said yesterday’s deal on tougher tariffs was “good news” - but warned Britain’s opposition meant it had been watered down from a much tougher plan drawn up by pro-tariff nations like Italy.

“It’s a step in the right direction,” Mr Stace said.

“Further work is needed to ensure the EU’s trade defences are fit for purpose today and in the future.

“This proposal is a bit of a fudge.”

Furious Opposition MPs slammed Mrs May for failing to stick up for British steelworkers’ jobs.

Lib Dem leader Tim Farron said: ““This is a step in the right direction for all those whose jobs are threatened by cheap Chinese steel imports.

“But disgracefully this Tory government managed to water down tougher measures, and now has the gall to say they’re disappointed by the outcome.

“This is a blatant betrayal of British steelworkers and their communities. They shouldn’t have to count on other European leaders while our own government does its best to throw them on the scrapheap.”