Lincolnshire Councillors Rally for Steel Nationalisation Amidst Job Crisis

North Lincolnshire councillors have thrown their weight behind a campaign urging the government to nationalise British Steel, should negotiations with Chinese owners Jingye fail to protect jobs. The potential closure of two blast furnaces at Scunthorpe’s British Steel could see up to 2,700 jobs evaporate. A unanimous vote at a recent council meeting showcased a united front in supporting nationalisation if circumstances demanded. This follows the breakdown of discussions between Jingye and the government regarding a rescue package for the steel giant as it aims to decarbonise and secure a sustainable future. Council leader Rob Waltham voiced the collective concern, citing nationalisation as the only solution in the face of market failure. Labour leader Len Foster emphasised the importance of steel beyond mere commodity, viewing it as a symbol of national strength. The steelworks in Scunthorpe were heralded as the town’s ‘backbone’ by local councillors. The government has been urged to intervene and nationalise the business if a suitable deal with Jingye falls through. While Industry Minister Sarah Jones did not dismiss nationalisation, she expressed a strong preference for British Steel to resume negotiations.