Amanda Hack MP Supports Emergency Legislation

Amanda Hack MP Supports Emergency Legislation

Today, (12^th April), Parliament was recalled to debate the Steel Industry (Special Measures) Bill. The legislation grants the government the authority to direct steel companies in England, which will be used to protect the Scunthorpe British Steel site. It enables the UK government to preserve the capabilities of the blast furnaces. Additionally, it ensures all options remain viable for the future of the plant and the livelihoods it supports.

The move follows the breakdown in negotiations with the Government on proposals to assist British Steel by setting clear conditions for the use of public funds. However, British Steel’s owners repeatedly declined to accept the terms, which aimed to protect workers, secure taxpayers’ money, and create a sustainable future for the company.

Following the passing of the emergency legislation, Amanda Hack said:

“My constituents know more than most just how long it takes a community to recover from being at the heart of national industry, to losing that status. Steel to Scunthorpe is as Coal was to Coalville.

For Scunthorpe to lose its industry as we lost ours would have a devastating impact on not just the thousands of workers but also the neighbouring communities. I commend the Government for the swift actions that have been taken to not just ensure that thousands of jobs and a vital industry are saved, but that very industrial heritage is protected.”

British Steel is a vital asset to the UK. It supplies 90% of Network Rail’s steel requirement and is the UK’s major supplier of construction sections. The blast furnaces in Scunthorpe are the UK’s last. If they are allowed to close, the UK will be the only country in the G20 not able to make primary steel. That is why the Government has taken such emergency action today, acting in the national interest to help secure UK steelmaking for the future.