Sarah Champion MP Speaks Out on Behalf of Rotherham Steel Workers

Sarah Champion MP has urged the Government to take action to protect the jobs of Rotherham steel workers following the announcements that safeguards on steel are set to be cut and that Liberty Steel is to seek a buyer for its Speciality Arm, which includes the Narrow Strip Mill in Brinsworth.

The Trade Remedies Authority has recently confirmed its recommendation that safeguards that protect against surges of imports of foreign steel are to be slashed on almost half of all product categories. This is despite serious concerns having been raised about the decision by trade unions, industry bodies, steel producers and businesses throughout the steel supply chain.

Commenting on the recommendation and the future of the Brinsworth plant, Sarah said:

“The Government is gambling with the future of steel workers in Rotherham should it allow safeguards to lapse. This is the first real test of Britain’s independent trade policy following Brexit, but rather than using its new-found freedom of action to defend this vital strategic industry, it stands to be thrown to the wolves.’

‘At the same time, steel workers in Rotherham’s Narrow Strip Mill face an uncertain future. Instead of  proactive engagement with trade unions to ensure a good buyer is found and the future of the plant and its employees are guaranteed, they have offered nothing but warm words.”

Commenting following the debate, Sarah said:

“I have been raising the issues facing the steel industry with the Government for nearly a decade, yet little action has actually been taken to help this vibrant, dynamic business to address the underlying issues that have led to a cycle of successive crises.’

‘Only the Government can deliver the level playing field the industry needs to complete globally, but, when it comes to the crunch, they are nowhere to be seen. I will continue to do whatever I can to force them to stand by steel workers in my constituency.”