BLAENAU Gwent MP Nick Smith signed the UK Steel Charter in Parliament last week, backing plans to maximise the amount of UK produced steel used in UK construction and infrastructure projects.

Nick Smith MP has spoken out about the issue in Parliament recently, asking what steps will be taken to increase the share of UK steel used in Government projects as well as questioning the Ministry of Defence’s refusal to confirm that it will use UK steel for Navy ships and again calling for a higher percentage of steel bought by the Government to come from the UK

The UK Steel Charter builds upon existing Government policy on steel procurement but goes one step further by asking businesses and organisations to sign up and commit to a range of simple, practical steps they can take to support the UK steel industry.

With just over half of the steel purchased for UK construction projects currently coming from abroad, the potential to purchase more steel from UK producers is significant and would boost steel production, support steel jobs and communities, strengthen manufacturing supply chains, and increase UK GDP.

Nick Smith MP said: “I am proud to have signed the UK Steel Charter and support this vital industry.

“The UK steel industry directly employs more than 30,000 people, and there are around 9,000 people working in the Welsh steel industry – not to mention the thousands more employed in supply chains.

“A strong UK steel industry is critical in supporting other key strategic sectors, like automotive, construction, and engineering.

“I would encourage local businesses to sign up to the UK Steel Charter and maximise opportunities for our steel producers.”