We all know the crucial importance of the British Steel Special Profiles business to the East Cleveland economy. It’s a great plant staffed by highly skilled and dedicated workers, and works hand-in-glove with the Caterpillar factory next door, which is its primary customer. Every time I visit, I am impressed.
Many of you will be concerned about the reports of the £75 million loan requested by management. I raised the issue at Prime Minister’s Questions today, and the Government is in close talks with the company. I spoke to the Managing Director at Skinningrove, Richard Napier, this morning and am hopeful there will be a positive outcome.
Additionally, I have arranged to speak to Ministers this afternoon to re-emphasise the importance of delivering certainty about the future as quickly as possible.
Likewise, I am in close contact with Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen who is speaking to all the key parties and working flat out on this issue. I will provide a further update as soon as I have news.