Chancellor’s new powers put UK steel first in public contracts, strengthening Teesside and securing Britain’s future

29 September 2025

Luke Myer, Member of Parliament for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, has welcomed today’s announcement from Chancellor Rachel Reeves that the Government will legislate so public sector contracts can prioritise British-made steel.

The change is part of the Government’s “securonomics” approach, ensuring that critical national infrastructure, from shipbuilding to rail and energy, is built on strong domestic foundations. The announcement comes as part of Labour’s wider industrial strategy to put advanced manufacturing at the heart of economic growth, alongside support for shipbuilding and clean energy.

National manufacturing body Make UK welcomed the move. 

Stephen Phipson CBE CEO, Make UK, said: 

“This is good news for British manufacturers and British jobs. The Government has already delivered on the promise of a long term industrial strategy and this announcement is yet further proof that it is committed to putting advanced manufacturing at the heart of economic growth in the UK. 

“It also demonstrates a clear understanding that manufacturers are at the heart of national resilience and economic security and industry stands ready to match this commitment right across the UK.”

Meanwhile, British Steel and the Community union have today launched a joint campaign to buy British, calling on major firms to commit to using UK-made steel in national projects.

British Steel & Community Union said:

“Over the past year, Government has intervened to save our steel industry – now Community and British Steel are calling for industry to step up by committing to use UK-made steel in vital national projects, helping sustain an industry that contributes £1.7bn to the UK economy, and a further £2.2bn through supply chains.”

Luke Myer MP said:

 “In an uncertain trading environment, ‘buy British, build British’ has to be our approach. Today’s announcement means the law will give our steel industry the priority it deserves, recognising it as essential to our economic and national security. It is welcome news for Teesside and for steel communities across the country.

“Now, industry must back British steelmakers too. I fully endorse the joint campaign from Community and British Steel to buy British. If we are building new roads, railways or power stations, there should be no excuse for importing steel when we can produce it here. Teesside’s steelworkers have the skills and the pride to deliver and industry must match that commitment.”