The British Labour government strongly rebuked President Donald Trump’s recent warning about a potential link between autism and the use of paracetamol during pregnancy. Health Secretary Wes Streeting dismissed the claim during a Tuesday morning appearance on ITV, advising the public to trust the National Health Service (NHS) and British medical professionals over the U.S. President.
The statement follows Trump’s Monday press conference with Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, where they referenced studies suggesting a possible association between prenatal paracetamol use and developmental disorders like autism.
Streeting flatly denied any evidence supporting such a link, stating, “There is no evidence to link the use of paracetamol by pregnant women to autism in their children, none.” He called on the public to ignore President Trump’s remarks and rely on medical experts and established research. Streeting added that while skepticism is not inherently wrong, the public must follow scientific consensus, not political speculation.
President Trump’s concerns echoed recent remarks by Kennedy Jr., who noted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reviewing studies that show a suggested correlation between prenatal acetaminophen use and neurological conditions. The FDA acknowledged these studies and announced plans to update warning labels, citing the precautionary principle. However, the agency clearly stated that a causal relationship has not been established and conflicting studies exist.
Despite the FDA’s cautionary steps, British health officials remain united in their stance. The European Medicines Agency and the World Health Organization have similarly maintained that paracetamol remains safe for pregnant women when used appropriately. A major 2024 Swedish cohort study involving millions of children found no causal link between paracetamol and autism or ADHD.
The Labour government’s sharp public break from President Trump reflects growing tension between Downing Street and the White House, despite attempts at unity during Trump’s recent state visit. Disagreements over medical guidance, energy policy, mass migration, and cultural values have highlighted ongoing ideological divides between the two administrations.
In a separate clash on Tuesday, Streeting also condemned President Trump’s criticism of London’s multiculturalism, defending Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan and reaffirming the capital’s diverse identity. Trump’s remarks, made during a United Nations speech, drew a swift rebuttal from Streeting, who praised Khan’s leadership and dismissed claims of radical influence in the city.
