The Government is ramping up its plans to rebuild the UK’s steel sector with the launch of a new Steel Council which will bring together leaders from across the industry to advise on its upcoming Steel Strategy.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds chaired the first meeting of the Council on 7 January together with co-chair Jon Bolton, chairman of the
Materials Processing Institute — a globally-recognised non-profit research and innovation centre based in the iconic steel community of Teesside.
A secure future for the steel industry is vital to both the UK’s national security and delivering growth, the foundation of the Government’s Plan for Change, and with the launch of the Council the Government is taking another important step towards safeguarding the long-term future of the sector.
The Council will bring together steel sector leaders such as CEOs from
Tata Steel and
British Steel with trade union leaders, industry experts, devolved government representatives and trade associations to address the challenges facing the UK’s steel industry. It will meet regularly as the Government prepares to launch its Steel Strategy, providing a vital link between industry, workers, experts and government in every part of the UK and ensuring that both the workforce and economic growth are at the heart of its plans to rebuild the steel sector.
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 are placing workers and local communities at the heart of our plans as we bring forward up to £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 Steel Strategy, we are proving once again that we are the Government that is committed to driving growth and innovation in the sector.
Crucial for economic growth“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 are delivering on the Plan for Change and boosting economic stability.”
Gareth Stace, director-general, UK Steel, added: “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 is 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.
“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.”
The Government intends to work closely with the Steel Council towards the launch of the Steel Strategy this spring, and the Council will continue to meet regularly following its publication to help drive investment into steelmaking communities around the country.