Redcar and Cleveland MP and Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds Addresses UK Steel Parliamentary Summit: A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity for UK Steel

Anna Turley MP, Member of Parliament for Redcar and Cleveland, last week hosted a significant UK Steel Parliamentary Summit on Monday, bringing together key stakeholders from the steel industry, trade unions, and government to discuss the future of the UK steel sector. The summit, held in the House of Commons, organised by Anna and UK Steel, marked a pivotal moment for the industry, with the Rt Hon. Jonathan Reynolds, Business and Trade Secretary, outlining plans for a new UK Steel Strategy that could transform the future of steelmaking across the country. 

During his keynote address, Jonathan Reynolds described the opportunity as a "once-in-a-generation" moment for UK steel, urging the sector to embrace innovation, decarbonisation, and sustainable growth. Reynolds emphasised that now is the time to reshape the steel industry and create a long-term strategy that benefits both the economy and local communities, that rely on steel production. 

“This is our chance to get it right,” said Jonathan Reynolds. “The UK steel industry is crucial to our economy, and this strategy will be a turning point. We must be pragmatic and focused on the national interest, ensuring that steel is competitive and sustainable for the future.” 

As the host of the summit, Anna Turley used the occasion to highlight the vital role that the steel industry plays in the communities here in Redcar and Teesside, which were devastated by the closure of SSI Steelworks in 2015. Since then, Anna has been a relentless advocate for the sector, working alongside stakeholders to secure investment and support for the thousands of workers who depend on steelmaking for their livelihoods. 

“The steel industry has been the beating heart of Redcar and Teesside,” said Anna Turley MP. “After the devastating closure of SSI, our communities have shown incredible resilience. We now have a unique opportunity to ensure that steel remains a vital part of our local economy, driving growth, creating jobs, and leading the way in innovation.” 

One of the key topics discussed at the summit was the £2.5bn National Wealth Fund, which the government has committed to investing in the UK steel sector. This funding will help to modernise steel production, reduce carbon emissions, and strengthen the sector’s competitiveness on the global stage.  

As the summit concluded, Anna Turley reiterated her commitment to working with all stakeholders to shape a Steel Strategy that will benefit not just the industry as a whole, but also the people of Redcar and Cleveland. 

“We know the importance of steel to our community and our country. Now is the time to ensure that our region plays a central role in shaping the future of the UK steel industry,” Anna said. “I will continue to fight for the investment, policies, and support we need to make sure that Redcar and Teesside remain the heart of UK steel for generations to come.” 

The UK Steel Parliamentary Summit provided a platform for local communities, businesses, and the government to collaborate on building a strong, sustainable, and competitive future for UK steel.