Government launches new steel council to revive ‘neglected’ sector
The Government has announced the creation of a new steel council, with the aim of rebuilding the UK’s steel sector.
Leaders from across the industry will advise on the upcoming steel strategy, which is backed by up to £2.5bn of investment.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will chair the first meeting of the Council today (January 7) together with co-chair Jon Bolton, Chairman of the Materials Processing Institute – a globally-recognised non-profit research and innovation centre based in Teesside.
The Council will bring together steel sector leaders such as CEOs from Tata Steel, British Steel, the Warwick Manufacturing Group, Liberty Steel, Marcegaglia UK and Sheffield Forgemasters.
Industry leaders will join trade unions, sector experts, devolved government representatives and trade associations to address the challenges facing the steel industry and make the changes needed to secure steelmaking in the UK.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “The industry and steel communities have had enough of lurching from crisis to crisis – this government will take the action needed to place steel on a secure footing for the long term. With the launch of the Steel Council we’re placing workers and local communities at the heart of our plans as we bring forward £2.5 billion of investment to secure growth right across the country.
“Steel was a neglected industry in this country under the previous government, but with the launch of this Council and our upcoming Strategy, we’re proving once again that we are the Government that’s committed to driving growth and innovation in the sector.
“A vibrant steel sector is crucial for economic growth and our national security, and by reflecting views from industry across the UK as we bring forward our Steel Strategy we’re delivering on the Plan for Change and boosting economic stability.”
Gareth Stace, Director-General of UK Steel said: “The establishment of the Steel Council marks a defining moment for the future of steelmaking in Britain. The Council represents a crucial step towards creating a comprehensive Government Steel Strategy – one that lays the foundations for a sustainable and resilient industry.
“This strategy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to foster a competitive business environment that encourages long-term investment and ensures steelmaking remains at the heart of the UK economy.
“We are committed to collaborating with the Government, trade unions, and industry partners to turn this vision into a shared success, securing the sustained growth that our sector, its workforce, and our communities rightfully deserve.”
Jon Bolton, Chairman of the Materials Processing Institute said: “I am honoured to be asked to co-chair the Steel Council. I have worked in the steel industry globally for over 40 years, and it’s clear this sector has faced many challenges.
“However, I believe the UK has all the essential elements to attract investment into the steel industry: demand, skills, technology, unrivalled research and development and, critically, a supportive government having announced up to £2.5 billion of support through the National Wealth Fund.
“I see the Council’s task being to develop a strategy that details the core elements of that investment plan and to establish a roadmap towards a rejuvenated, competitive and environmentally progressive industry.”
Full list of the Steel Council’s membership:
Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Chair)
Jon Bolton, Chairman of the Materials Processing Institute (Co-chair)
Sarah Jones, Minister of State for Industry and Decarbonisation
British Steel
Tata Steel
Liberty Steel
Marcegaglia UK – Dudley, Rotherham
Sheffield Forgemasters
Celsa Steel
UK Steel
British Metals Recycling Association
Materials Processing Institute
Warwick Manufacturing Group
Community Trade Union
GMB Trade Union
Kate Forbes, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic, Scottish Government
Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Welsh Government
Conor Murphy, Minister for the Economy, Northern Ireland Executive
