Defence schemes have sparked outrage after it was revealed that the MoD were importing “woke” eco-friendly steel over alloys manufacturered in Britain.
The possibility that blast furnaces at Port Talbot and Scunthorpe could close has fuelled worry that the country might increasingly rely on foreign states for materials, including steel.
These concerns have been raised as Labour begins to steer towards eco-friendly arc furnaces instead.
Deputy leader of Reform UK Richard Tice asked the Government to explain how it ensured the security of Britain’s steel supply for critical infrastructure, as well as value for money in steel prices during the transitional period.
The Department for Business and Trade said that “neither Tata Steel nor British Steel are currently critical suppliers into UK defence programmes”
PA
In response, the Department for Business and Trade said that “neither Tata Steel nor British Steel are currently critical suppliers into UK defence programmes”.
As Port Talbot’s transition is carried out, “Tata will be importing steel slab and coil for a temporary period whilst the new electric arc furnace (EAF) is being built”.
Nevertheless, the Department emphasised: “We continue to prioritise engagement with British Steel.”
It added: “Neither Tata Steel nor British Steel are currently critical suppliers into UK defence programmes.
“High quality steel, including for the Royal Navy’s new Dreadnaught class submarines, is already being made by EAF steel producers.”
Firing back, Tice said that the Government was giving in to “wokery” in trying to reach net zero – regardless of its negative impact on the country’s steel industry.
Insisting that the MoD ought to purchase steel from Tata and British Steel, he said: “We should be buying British.”
“That starts from the Government, whether it’s food or steel, we should buy British. Net zero wokery has led to the loss of business and loss of jobs because decarbonisation means deindustrialisation.”
Earlier this year, in September, business secretary Jonathan Reynolds made a deal with the owners of Port Talbot steel – a decision which would result in thousands of job losses
PA
Earlier this year, in September, business secretary Jonathan Reynolds made a deal with the owners of Port Talbot steel – a decision which would result in thousands of job losses.
An MoD spokesman said: “The UK steel industry plays a vital role in defence, to both our national security and economic growth, including being used in the production of warships and submarines.
“This Government recently signed the Trinity House Agreement between the UK and Germany, which will see the UK manufacture artillery gun barrels for the first time in 10 years, using British steel produced by Sheffield Forgemasters.
“As part of our Defence Industrial Strategy, we will ensure a strong defence sector and resilient supply chains, including steel, across the whole of the UK.”