UK Metals Sector demands sectoral representation and support from the government

In the UK's annual State of the Metals Industry report, 62 percent of respondent companies called on the government to introduce a dedicated political force to represent the metals sector in Whitehall. 58 percent said they had difficulty attracting new employees.

Rachel Eade MBE, Chair of the UK Metals Council, said that the demand from the industry is clear and this presents an opportunity for the Labor Party. She said that the introduction of the Industrial Strategy has found broad support in the sector.

The report underlined that metals firms are showing resilience despite energy instability and political changes, with half optimistic about growth. UK Metals Expo made six key demands on the government: The appointment of a Minister for Manufacturing, seamless trade support, a review of the Apprenticeship Levy and funding for learning.