British Steel’s UK government intervention has halted redundancy plans for 2,700 jobs at the Scunthorke steelworks, bringing certainty to thousands of staff for the long term.
The UK government’s intervention in British Steel has led to the halt of redundancy plans that threatened 2,700 jobs at the Scunthorpe steelworks. The company, now under government control, has withdrawn its consultation papers for job losses.
British Steel is a leading steel producer in the UK, with a history dating back to 1986.
The company was formed through the privatization of the British Steel Corporation, which was established in 1967.
Today, British Steel operates several production facilities across the UK, producing a range of 'steel products' including plate, coils, and sections.
The company has undergone significant restructuring efforts since its inception, with a focus on improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Stabilizing Production and Securing Raw Materials
Officials confirm that the move is part of ongoing efforts to stabilize production following the confirmation of a secure supply of raw materials for the site. This development brings certainty to thousands of hard-working staff for the long term, according to Industry Minister Sarah Jones.
The halt in redundancy plans comes after a difficult period for staff and their families. Lisa Coulson, interim chief commercial officer at British Steel, praised the workforce for its ‘extraordinary dedication‘ and expressed gratitude towards trade unions for their support. She acknowledged that it was a ‘difficult and worrying time,’ but stated that the company is now in a better position to ensure steelmaking in Scunthorpe has a bright future.
A Brighter Future for Steelworkers
British Steel workers are widely regarded as among the finest in the world, according to Lisa Coulson. The company has also announced it will no longer need to carry out a ‘salamander tap‘ process, which is used to temporarily shut down blast furnaces by drilling a hole to remove any remaining hot metal.
The securing of raw materials for both the Queen Anne and Queen Bess blast furnaces means that British Steel can run both continuously. This development has brought relief to staff and the local community, with Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, national officer at the GMB Union, describing it as ‘fantastic news‘ that will lift a cloud of uncertainty from above the whole community.
A New Chapter for British Steel
The halt in redundancy plans marks a significant turning point for British Steel. The company’s rescue and ongoing efforts to stabilize production have brought certainty to thousands of employees. As the steel industry continues to evolve, it is clear that British Steel is committed to its workforce and the local community.
