British Steel must be brought into public ownership to save jobs, communities and industry
GMB, the union for steel workers, says British Steel workers need a concrete commitment’ after the deadline for reaching a deal ends today.
The government is ready to open talks with other bidders for British Steel after failing to agree terms with the Ataer Holding, granted exclusivity in August.
The company had until today to reach an agreement to buy the business, which includes the works in Scunthorpe.
Ministers must be prepared to make use of all the options – including nationalisation – in order to save British Steel and the wider steel industry. pic.twitter.com/gmkmKVoN6s
— GMB UNION (@GMB_union) May 22, 2019
Charlotte Childs, GMB Organiser, said:
“We went to Turkey last week and were encouraged by the operation.
“Testimonies from their trade unions, as well as staff and the British ambassador, indicated a slick operation that seems to deliver on their promises.
“In light of that it’s very disappointing some suppliers appear to be putting stumbling blocks in the way.
“We understand to maintain competitive contracts, but if the cost of this lack of flexibility is going to be the loss of steel making in Scunthorpe then everyone is a loser.
“GMB believes there are a number of other bidders waiting in the wings if this deal is not viable.
GMB calls on the UK government to bring British Steel into public ownership to ensure that our communities and jobs are protected and that the UK doesn’t let one of its cornerstone industries die.
Charlotte Childs, GMB Organiser
“But what our members need now is a concrete commitment to steelmaking in Scunthorpe.
“GMB calls on the UK government to bring British Steel into public ownership to ensure that our communities and jobs are protected and that the UK doesn’t let one of its cornerstone industries die.”
