By ‘Constructive’ talks held as future of British Steel hangs in the balance
Scunthorpe MP Holly Mumby-Croft has held ‘constructive’ talks with British Steel and the government following worrying claims that thousands of jobs could be at risk.
Over the weekend reports emerged of the need for a package to ensure Scunthorpe’s blast furnaces remain viable. Although British Steel hasn’t confirmed if they are considering redundancies, it is calling for a level playing field with global competitors.
However the Scunthorpe MP has stated that she is encouraged by what she has heard from the ongoing talks, adding that the shared goal of all involved is to keep the steelworks running.
Ms Mumby-Croft said: “For several weeks now I have been working closely behind the scenes with British Steel, the Government and officials in the business department to secure a deal that protects our steelworks here in Scunthorpe
“The steelworks is facing a set of challenges including increased energy costs, inflation and the price of carbon.
“I come from a steel family myself and I understand this news will have caused a lot of worry and anxiety in our area. I want to reassure everyone in Scunthorpe and the surrounding area that I will keep fighting for a deal between British Steel and the Government that protects our area and our country’s proud steel making capability. As a local lass and the granddaughter of a steelworker, I know how important this is to Scunthorpe and the surrounding areas.
“The conversations that have happened so far have been constructive and I have been encouraged by them. Everyone – the Government, British Steel, me – is working towards the same goal of keeping our steelworks going.
“The Government has shown time and again that it is willing to stand up for our steel. In addition to twice retaining safeguards and the recent business energy announcements, the Government has provided significant support to the steel industry in the past, over £780 million over the last decade, including paying workers’ wages here in Scunthorpe.
“My job is to stick up for our local area and residents can be assured that’s exactly what I’m doing. I will always fight for our steelworks with everything I’ve got!”
British Steel has yet to comment further on what measures would be required from government, only reiterating the statement released over the weekend.
It said: “We are investing hundreds of millions of pounds in our long-term future but like most other companies we are facing a significant challenge because of the economic slowdown, surging inflation and exceptionally high energy and carbon prices.
“We welcome the recent announcement by the UK government to reduce energy costs for businesses and remain in dialogue with officials to ensure we compete on a level playing field with our global competitors.”
