Sir Keir Starmer has announced that emergency legislation will be debated by the government on Saturday to prevent the closure of the British Steel plant in Scunthorpe, citing concerns for economic and national security.
The prime minister emphasized the importance of preserving the future of British Steel and stated that legislation will be passed the following day to enable the government to intervene and explore all viable options for the plant.
MPs and Lords are being called back from Easter recess to Westminster for a debate on draft legislation regarding the plans, scheduled to commence at 11am on Saturday.
The government had been contemplating nationalizing British Steel after Jingye, the Chinese owner of the plant in Scunthorpe, terminated future orders for crucial raw materials needed to sustain the last blast furnaces in the UK.
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Jingye also turned down a £500m state rescue package, sparking concerns about the 3,500 jobs at the Lincolnshire plant and the potential closure of the site in the near future.
The steel produced at the plant is utilized in various sectors such as rail, construction, and automotive industries. The closure of the plant could result in Britain relying on imports during a period of trade conflicts and global instability.
In a brief statement from Downing Street, Sir Keir stated: «I will always prioritize protecting British jobs and workers in the national interest.
«Today, the future of British Steel is at stake.
«Jobs, investments, growth, and our economic and national security are all at risk.»
‘A new era of global instability’
The prime minister mentioned his visit to the Scunthorpe site and his interaction with the steelworkers there.
He acknowledged the significance of steel to the nation and expressed: «It’s a crucial part of our national identity, a source of pride and heritage.
«Moreover, it is fundamental for our future.
«Our strategy for change necessitates an increase in steel production, not a decrease. Therefore, we will act promptly… This situation and our response are unparalleled.
«While we are indeed facing a new phase of global uncertainty, our efforts to safeguard this plant have been ongoing for years.»
Sir Keir confirmed that parliament will convene for a «Saturday sitting» to swiftly pass emergency legislation granting the business secretary the authority to explore all avenues to prevent the closure of the blast furnaces.
He added: «We will consider all available options. Please rewrite this sentence. Please rewrite this sentence. Please rewrite the following sentence for me. Please rephrase. Please rewrite the following sentence:
«The dog ran quickly through the park.»
«The dog sprinted through the park at a fast pace.» Please rewrite this sentence.
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