Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to improve the quality and consistency of short scrap metal to meet increased demand for future electric arc furnace steelmaking.

The Government is aware the sector's transition to electric arc furnaces will mean scrap steel becomes an increasingly vital material source for UK steelmaking. The UK has an abundance of ferrous scrap and a strong scrap sector - there were c.11 million tonnes of scrap arising in 2021, with 2.6 million tonnes (25%) consumed domestically (International Steel Statistics Bureau via UK Steel) and 8.6 million tonnes (75%) exported (HMRC Overseas Trade Data).Steel producers are increasing their engagement with scrap metal dealers to secure future supply. Government officials continue to closely monitor the development of the scrap market and the Government will consider its options if evidence emerges that the market is failing to respond effectively.