Steel industry must not be 'neglected', says MP

Speaking in Parliament earlier this week the Labour MP urged the UK Government to back the 'steel charter' - a document developed by industry body UK Steel inviting governments and public sector bodies to prioritise British producers for public contracts.

The Welsh Government is among organisations which have already signed the charter.

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Addressing business, energy and industrial strategy minister Andrew Stephenson, Ms Morden said: "The government’s industrial strategy has recently drawn criticism for neglecting steel.

"Will ministers attend the launch of the charter on May 20, and sign up to it on behalf of the department, to maximise opportunities for UK steel in uncertain times?"

Replying, Mr Stephenson said: "I look forward to working with the UK steel sector and have already had several engagements.

"Steel overcapacity remains a significant global issue that requires international solutions, but here in the UK we have already done a range of things, including identifying more than £3.8 billion a year of UK domestic requirement for steel."

Speaking afterwards, Ms Morden said: “If adopted, the UK Steel Charter will provide clear benefits for the steel industry, the wider manufacturing sector and the UK economy as a whole.

"The government have dragged their heels on steel for far too long, and the time for vague warm words from ministers has passed.”

She added: “It’s time for this government to commit to signing the Charter – as a number of national governments, businesses and organisations have already done – and give the industry the firm vote of confidence it needs.”