Protecting Steel in the UK

Roger Gale Excerpts

Tuesday 23rd January 2024 Commons Chamber

[Mr Deputy Speaker (Sir Roger Gale)]

Let me say at the very start of the debate that a lot of hon. Members on both sides of the House wish to take part, so once we have heard from the Front Benchers there will almost certainly have to be a three-minute time limit, if we are to get everybody in.

--- Later in debate ---

[Jonathan Reynolds]

rose—

[Mr Deputy Speaker (Sir Roger Gale)]

Before the hon. Gentleman continues, may I make a point? I understand how this game is played, and interventions are fine, but please understand from the Chair that if Members intervene they are less likely to get called.

[Jonathan Reynolds]

It was a pleasure to visit the Shotton steelworks with my right hon. Friend last year, and he will know that it began as the Summers steelworks in Stalybridge in my constituency. He has much expertise, and I commend the argument and points he has put forward.

The decisions the Government have made will have consequences. They will have consequences for our national security and our resilience, and they risk leaving us exposed at a time of significant geopolitical instability.