Government must lead to save steel industry, says TUC

Commenting on the reported decision by Tata Steel to seek to sell its British steel production business, TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“This is yet more deeply troubling news for British steelworkers. While plant closures have been averted, the proposed sale of Tata Steel spells uncertainty for entire communities.

“We need action to secure a future for British steel. The government should directly intervene to save the UK steel industry, and Parliament should be recalled in order to debate how best to secure the future of this vital industry.

“Now, more than ever, the government needs to engage and listen to the steel unions.

“Other EU countries have shown that governments can act to support the steel industry, but this requires real political will.

“British steelworkers are world class. It’s time for the government to stand up for them.”