BCSA urges UK government to support steel production
The British Steel Structures Association (BCSA) is calling on the UK government to take measures to support the domestic steel industry, which is facing an "imminent threat," according to Callanish.
In a letter to Business Secretary Peter Kyle, BCSA Executive Director Jonathan Clemens writes that the future of domestic steel production and construction in the UK is under threat, as is the export potential of the sectors. Clemens expresses serious concern that "the government has not yet established full control over British Steel," singling it out as a key supplier to the steel sector.
"This ongoing delay and uncertainty will have disastrous consequences for our entire industry," the letter says.
It adds that current UK procurement requirements and government policy in many cases exclude steel production in the UK. British steelmakers have previously noted this barrier to market entry.
"We cannot reduce carbon dioxide emissions without electric arc furnaces, and we cannot improve primary steel production without new modern blast furnaces. Both are necessary," the association says.
"We are facing competition from foreign companies that significantly reduce energy costs, cheaper labor, and working conditions that significantly reduce their costs. As a result, specification drafters are encouraged to use steel imports and even offshore production to achieve carbon emissions targets and reduce costs," it continues.
The letter warns that without urgent action, this could mean the end of the UK's steel and manufacturing industries.
BCSA represents 150 enterprises employing 30,000 people in the steel and construction industries.
Author: Carrie Bone
Kallanish.com