This week in Parliament (7 January 2026), Luke Myer MP met with Gareth Stace, Director General of UK Steel, to discuss the future of the UK steel sector amid a challenging global trade environment. As Chair of the APPG on Steel and Metals-related Industries, Luke continues to work closely with producers across the country to ensure the industry’s voice is heard at the heart of government.

UK Steel represents manufacturers of all sizes from every corner of the UK, championing an industry that is innovative, globally competitive and increasingly environmentally responsible. The meeting focused on the trade context, the Government’s forthcoming Steel Strategy, and the importance of procurement rules that properly value domestic production.

Earlier in the week, Luke also met with Community union to hear directly from workforce representatives about the pressures facing steelworkers and their communities. He also met with Industry Minister Chris McDonald MP, where they discussed procurement, and with representatives from the Industrial Communities Alliance, where they discussed a range of issues relating to the Steel Strategy and manufacturing.

Finally, he questioned the Defence Secretary in Parliament on steel procurement – asking him to “ensure that British steel is used across the defence industrial supply chain, so that national security is also economic security for Britain” (Hansard, 7 January).

Over the past year, the Labour Government has stepped in to protect the steel industry, including decisive action to safeguard British Steel. Luke’s discussions this week underlined the need for long-term certainty, fair trade protections and a clear commitment to buying British. Luke reiterated his strong support for Community & British Steel’s Save Steel Buy British campaign, which calls on industry to pledge to use UK-made steel in major national projects. British steel already underpins landmark developments such as Hinkley Point C and the Alexander Stadium, demonstrating the strategic importance of a secure domestic supply.

“Steel is foundational to our economy, our security and our sense of national capability. Government has shown it will act to protect this industry. Now we need industry and major contractors to step up too—by choosing British steel, backing British workers, and investing in a resilient future for communities like ours.”