The UK government has pushed the publication of the long-awaited Steel Strategy into 2026, Kallanish learns from a written ministerial statement on British Steel.
The statement written by UK industry minister Chris McDonald says: “The government remains committed to supporting the UK steel sector and delivering a steel strategy. A robust position on trade is a critical element of this strategy, underpinning our approach to defending against unfair practices and global over-capacity. We are prioritising developing robust measures in light of the UK steel safeguard expiring during 2026 to protect our domestic sector, making sure there are healthy levels of imports, and engaging with our partners. We will therefore publish the steel strategy in early 2026.”
The UK steel sector sees the strategy as vital for the future of the industry, but it has witnessed a number of delays throughout 2025. During the first few months of the year, the government launched its Steel Council and started holding roundtables as part of its work on the Steel Strategy as well as conducting a consultation. Its publication was expected during spring 2025.
However, it is believed the strategy has seen several revisions following the government’s intervention in British Steel in April, followed by Liberty Speciality Steels (SSUK) entering compulsory liquidation in August.
During topical questions in the House of Commons on 11 December, Andrew Griffith, Conversative MP, asked: “Will the Minister give the sector the Christmas present that it wants and publish the steel strategy?”
He highlighted the 18 months without the strategy, as well as the lack of a trade deal with the US on steel tariffs, and the absence of an agreement with the owners of British Steel.
Chris Bryant, Minister of State for Department for Business and Trade, replied that such a question was “a bit of a cheek” coming from the Conservatives “when they had absolutely no strategy”.
He added: “There will be a steel strategy. The Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade [Chris McDonald] has been having discussions with trade unions and industry, both downstream and the producers, and we will be producing a comprehensive steel strategy very soon.”
Despite the delay, Gareth Stace, director-general of UK Steel, has welcomed the news. “It is right that the Government ensures trade measures and a plan for the sector assets it currently controls are announced for any strategy to work. With these frameworks in place, the strategy can become an effective plan of action, not intention.”
