Championing our local steel industry is a huge part of my job, given the importance of Government support for our steelwork's competitiveness. This is why residents will often see me bobbing up-and-down on the green benches in the House of Commons, trying to catch the eye of the Speaker so that I can reiterate the importance of a domestic steel industry. Indeed, since coming into office in 2019, it has been brought to my attention that I have mentioned steel 132 times in Parliament. Whether it be the campaign for Government to retain safeguards, procure British steel or mitigate high energy prices, I have always found a valid reason to raise steel issues whenever possible. Please do have a watch of the video below that my office has kindly put together, which is a highlight reel of every mention I have made of steel down in Westminster.
I would point out that my work in the Chamber is a small, but incredibly important, part of the efforts I undertake to support our local steel industry. It is safe to say that I have probably mentioned steel a lot more times off-camera! I am in constant discussions with residents, steel colleagues and local stakeholders as to how best to raise awareness of steel needs, and will keep fighting for our steelworks through every avenue available to me.