Cat Eccles MP welcomed the Minister for Industry to Stourbridge to visit two local industries and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sectors.
The visit provided an opportunity for Chris McDonald MP to see firsthand the important work taking place at SSAB’s Brierley Hill site, meet the team behind the operation and hear directly from businesses about the future of the steel industry.
During a tour of SSAB’s Steel Service Centre, the Minister met with Managing Director David Williams, Sales Director Mark Jeffrey and members of the production team to learn more about the materials they process, the markets they supply, and the skilled work carried out at the site.
The visit also brought together representatives from other local steel companies for a discussion on the Government’s Steel Strategy, including the impact of quota and tariff arrangements and the wider challenges facing businesses operating in the sector.
Ms Eccles has been working closely with local steel businesses to ensure their concerns are heard and has continued to raise issues affecting the industry in Parliament. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity for businesses to share their experiences directly with the Minister and discuss the support needed to protect jobs, maintain competitiveness and secure the future of UK steel.
Cat Eccles MP said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister to Stourbridge and give him the opportunity to see the expertise, innovation and dedication that exists within our local steel sector.
"Our steel businesses are an important part of our local economy, supporting skilled jobs and supplying industries across the UK and beyond.
"It was incredibly valuable for the Minister to hear directly from companies about the challenges they face, particularly around tariffs, quotas and the need for a level playing field.
"I will continue to work with local businesses and Government to ensure the voices of Stourbridge’s steel sector are heard and that we secure the support needed for these vital industries to thrive.”
David Williams, Managing Director of SSAB Ltd, added: “We were delighted to welcome the Minister to our Brierley Hill site and showcase the fantastic work carried out by our team.
"Our skilled workforce is at the heart of everything we do, and the visit was a valuable opportunity to highlight the important role our business plays within the wider manufacturing supply chain.
"We appreciated the opportunity to discuss the challenges facing the sector, as well as the opportunities to ensure UK steel businesses can continue to grow and compete on the global stage.”
The Stourbridge MP also welcomed Minister McDonald to Stourbridge Glass Museum to see firsthand how Stourbridge's world-renowned glass industry is pioneering more sustainable ways of working while preserving centuries of craftsmanship.
During the visit, Allister Malcolm demonstrated his pioneering glassmaking techniques using a custom built electric kiln, manufactured by a specialist company in Burntwood, Staffordshire.
The kiln dramatically reduces the energy required for glass production and offers a model that could be adopted across the wider glass sector and other energy intensive creative industries’, including ceramics.
The Minister also toured the Stourbridge Glass Museum, exploring the area's rich industrial heritage alongside examples of Allister Malcolm's contemporary work, demonstrating how Stourbridge continues to combine worldclass craftsmanship with innovation.
Alexander Goodger, Director of Stourbridge Glass Museum, said: "Stourbridge's glassmaking story has always been one of innovation. While we are proud to preserve our internationally significant heritage, we're equally passionate about showcasing the artists and makers who are shaping its future.
"We were delighted to welcome Minister McDonald to the Museum to demonstrate how sustainability and craftsmanship can sit side by side.
"By bringing together heritage, education and innovation, we hope to inspire the next generation of glassmakers and ensure Stourbridge remains recognised around the world for excellence in glass."
The visits form part of ongoing engagement between Ms Eccles, the Government and local businesses to support the future of Stourbridge’s manufacturing sectors.
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