UK MPs Debate Emergency Control Measures for British Steel

UK Members of Parliament (MPs) are convening for a rare Saturday session to debate emergency legislation aimed at preventing Jingye, the Chinese owners of British Steel, from closing blast furnaces at the Scunthorpe plant. Industry Minister Sarah Jones emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that failure to keep the furnaces operational could lead to the end of primary steelmaking in the UK and significant job losses. The proposed law would allow the government to use taxpayer funds to provide necessary materials and potentially facilitate a change in ownership if Jingye does not cooperate. It also includes provisions for criminal sanctions against executives who fail to comply with orders to maintain operations. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has warned that the future of British Steel is precarious, highlighting the need for decisive action to ensure the industry's survival. The government's approach may include nationalization as a last resort to safeguard domestic steel production.