British Steel Closures Threaten 2,700 Jobs and UK Projects

British Steel, owned by China's Jingye Group, is considering closing its last two blast furnaces in Scunthorpe, threatening up to 2,700 jobs. The decision is driven by financial unsustainability due to challenging market conditions, high environmental costs, and recent 25% US tariffs on steel imports, with the company reportedly losing £700,000 daily. British Steel rejected a £500 million government rescue package and is now in talks to convert to electric arc furnaces. The potential shutdown raises national concerns as the UK may need to import steel for infrastructure projects, such as Heathrow's third runway. The UK government continues discussions with British Steel to explore options to secure the company's future. Local communities and unions are urging the government to intervene and prevent the closures.