Scunthorpe MP Sir Nic Dakin has voiced his unwavering belief in the long-term survival of the town’s steel industry. Despite Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds’ reluctance to ensure sufficient raw material supplies to maintain operations, Dakin remains optimistic about the prospects of the British Steel plant. Emergency legislation was hastily passed in Parliament last Saturday to prevent Jingye, the owners, from closing the two blast furnaces. While Dakin acknowledges the challenging road ahead, he believes the workforce and management are more than capable of rising to the occasion. The Steel Industry (Special Measures) Act now allows Reynolds to direct British Steel’s board and staff. Dakin, who has been tirelessly striving to secure the plant’s future, stated that everyone desires a sustainable business in Scunthorpe. Despite his absence from Saturday’s debate in the House of Commons, Dakin maintained a close watch on the proceedings. The debate saw a range of views from MPs across the region and political parties. While some advocated for nationalisation of British Steel and others expressed concerns about potential costs to taxpayers, Dakin remains focused on the necessary steps to secure the industry’s future.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
