The Community trade union and British Steel have launched a new campaign, “Save Steel Buy British”, calling on UK industry to sign a pledge backing the sector, Kallanish reports.
The pledge urges use of British-made steel in major national infrastructure projects such as schools, housing, hospitals, roads and rail. It aims to secure the future of sovereign steelmaking and safeguard skilled jobs at a time when the industry is facing “unprecedented challenges.”
It notes that with major projects such as Hinkley Point C and the Alexander Stadium being built with British steel, the importance of a reliable domestic supply is clear. Other key applications within the country include powering energy and transport networks to strengthening defence capabilities.
The document adds that the industry should step up to commit to using UK-made steel in national projects following government intervention in several of the country’s steel makers, including British Steel and Liberty’s Speciality Steel.
“Steel is a vital strategic industry which powers local economies and underpins the UK’s national security. You can’t build a greener, fairer economy without a resilient steel industry and the thousands of skilled jobs it supports in communities across the country,” says Alasdair McDiarmid, Community assistant general secretary.
“With a range of major national infrastructure projects on the horizon over the years ahead, it is absolutely imperative that we seize opportunities to maximise the procurement of British-made steel. Now is the time for government and businesses across the country to give our steel industry the vote of confidence it needs and deserves. They can do this by buying British,” he adds.
Allan Bell, interim chief executive of British Steel states: “By backing UK-made steel, businesses are helping safeguard jobs, skills and local communities, while securing the capacity to deliver for Britain’s future. This campaign is about ensuring our industry thrives and continues to provide the strength and security the country relies on.”
Carrie Bone UK
