North Yorkshire MP recognises industry concerns during factory visit

MP for Thirsk and Malton, Kevin Hollinrake, acknowledged steel sector concerns about retentions, training and public contracts when he visited the North Yorkshire facility of National Tube Stockholders (NTS).

During the visit, Mr Hollinrake, who is also a minister in the department of business and trade, met with executives from NTS, Severfield and staff from the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA). They discussed the industry’s contribution to the UK economy and what steelwork companies are doing to generate more growth across the sector.

With retention clauses affecting the cash flow for firms across the steelwork sector, Mr Hollinrake was happy to engage on the issue. The allocation of publicly funded projects to UK-based firms was also discussed, along with concerns over the skill set of the future workforce.

David Moore, Chief Executive of BCSA said: “I would personally like to thank Mr Hollinrake for visiting NTS and discussing with me the important issues facing the constructional steelwork sector.

“It’s great to see two of our members engage with their local MP and highlight all their amazing ongoing projects.

“We represent more than 100 steelwork and construction firms across the UK and often help facilitate meetings between MPs and members to ensure their issues are heard, and raised with policy makers.”

Mr Hollinrake MP said: “The steel industry is a vital part of the UK economy and it was great to discuss with leaders from NTS and Severfield about how we can plan for more growth in the future.

“I’ve been continuing my work connecting local engineering businesses with apprentices and it’s clearly so important we source skilled workers from the local area for future projects for these firms.”