Tees Valley Mayor and Labour MPs are at odds over British Steel’s plans, raising concerns about the future of steelmaking in Teesside
Teesside: The local mayor, Ben Houchen, and Labour MPs are trading letters again. This time, it’s about British Steel possibly scrapping plans for steelmaking in Teesside. Reports say the electric arc furnaces might only be built in Scunthorpe.
Houchen reached out to the MPs after hearing the news. He’s worried that if Scunthorpe is the only site, it would be a big mistake. He believes it would delay the UK’s steelmaking capabilities.
For a while now, the government has been in talks with British Steel’s owner, Jingye. They want to convert old blast furnaces into electric ones. This is part of a plan to cut carbon emissions and create a greener future.
In a previous letter, Houchen argued that Teesside is the best place for the first electric arc furnace. He pointed out that the area has the necessary approvals and infrastructure. But the MPs didn’t respond directly; instead, they accused him of playing politics.
After the latest reports, Houchen wrote again, urging the MPs to prioritize Teesside. He reminded them of the past when steel jobs were lost and called for unity in fighting for the region’s future.
The Labour MPs quickly replied with their own letter, emphasizing that steel is vital for the UK’s future. They want to ensure Teesside is included in the next steps for steelmaking.
On social media, Houchen criticized the Labour MPs for what he called a “surrender.” He expected them to stand up for Teesside, not accept the government’s plans without a fight.
Anna Turley, one of the MPs, shared her thoughts online too. She recalled how they had proposed electric arc furnaces back in 2015 to save jobs. She feels the current government is not doing enough to protect existing jobs.
Matt Vickers, the only Conservative MP in the area, slammed the Labour MPs for their response. He accused them of not fighting hard enough for Teesside’s future and prioritizing Scunthorpe instead.
A spokesperson for British Steel said discussions with the government are ongoing. They haven’t made any final decisions yet. The government insists it won’t let steelmaking end in the UK and is committed to investing in the industry.
