British Steel participates in launch of UK government's Steel Council

British Steel has joined the inaugural meeting of the newly established Steel Council, launched by the UK Government to support the revitalization of the domestic steel industry. The council aims to advise on rebuilding the sector with up to £2.5 billion in funding through the forthcoming Steel Strategy.

The Steel Council brings together industry leaders, experts, trade unions, and devolved governments to work towards securing the long-term future of steel manufacturing in the UK. It will meet regularly to provide a communication platform between industry stakeholders and the government as the Steel Strategy develops.

British Steel's Chief Commercial and Procurement Officer, Allan Bell, who attended the first session, emphasized the council's potential impact: "Britain needs a strong and sustainable steel industry, and the new Steel Council can play an important role in helping deliver this. We look forward to working with the Government and our fellow British steelmakers to ensure the UK keeps making the steel it requires for generations to come."

The council is chaired by Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Jon Bolton, Chair of the Materials Processing Institute. Reynolds highlighted the council's focus on economic growth and national security, stating, "With the launch of the Steel Council, we’re placing workers and local communities at the heart of our plans. A vibrant steel sector is crucial for economic growth and our national security."

Gareth Stace, Director-General of UK Steel, welcomed the initiative: "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."

Source: British Steel, Photo: Fotolia