Gill Furniss MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Steel, Postal Services and Consumer Protection and Deputy Shadow Minister for Labour, commenting on reports that Tata Steel has agreed to sell its speciality steels business, said:

“After months of worry, steelworkers and their families in South Yorkshire at last have some certainty over what the future holds.

“While this is welcome news, the key test for Liberty will come in the detail of their plans for investment and jobs. Speciality Steels has the potential for a successful future, but only if its buyer works with management, the unions and local agencies in South Yorkshire to make that potential a reality.

“There are still huge challenges facing the steel industry nationally and we shouldn’t be complacent. On energy prices, on business rates, on procurement; the Government have made all the right noises about saving steel. Now is the time for them to act.”