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Bright Steels MD Calls for Manufacturing Minister in UK Government

Bright Steels Limited 14/07/2024

Backing Britain is back. Made in Group is urging the UK government to debate and act upon: addressing concerns related to safeguarding manufacturing capacity, addressing concerns related to ownership of British businesses and appointing a Minister for manufacturing.

Ahead of the UK general election, set to take place across Britain on 4th July 2024, The Backing Britain campaign seeks to enhance supply chain competence within government, ultimately driving national prosperity and security through a robust industrial sector. UK Industry leaders are taking action now by signing the pledge, including Philip Jackson MD of Bright Steels Limited - the UK’s last bright cold drawn flat bars manufacturer.

With a new government taking centre stage in the coming weeks, Made in Group, Including Made in the Midlands and Made in Yorkshire, is taking action. The Backing Britain pledge encourages manufacturers to sign an open letter that will be sent to every MP. On 5th December 2024 during Made’s annual Westminster trip the manifesto by manufacturers and the signed pledges will be presented to the government. To make a lasting impact, the organisation is encouraging every UK industry leader and professional to sign the pledge. With 100K signatures, the manifesto will be discussed in parliament and closer to taking real action on the matter.

Philip Jackson is the Managing Director at Bright Steels Limited, he believes manufacturing is often overlooked and is the reason why there needs to be a Minister for Manufacturing in Government. “Manufacturing is still an important sector for the UK and it tends to get overlooked. There needs to be someone with sole responsibility within the government to champion our cause” Philip said. Oxford Economics true impact report suggests manufacturing makes up for 23% of the overall UK GDP, an astonishing £518 billion (2022).

Whilst Made in Group is focused on calling on the government to review the request for a Minister for Manufacturing, industry leaders signing the pledge are doing so to highlight their support for Britain as a whole - ‘All 67M people of the UK’. “I believe I am Backing Britain by remaining in the UK and supporting local jobs, an investment back into our community.” Philip continued. Bright Steels employs around 75 people, many of which live in Malton, Yorkshire where the company is based. “Backing Britain should mean supporting and bringing to everybody's attention the strength of the manufacturing sector in the UK.” Philip concluded.

Made in Group is a trade organisation that helps elevate manufacturing businesses' online presence whilst giving them a platform to connect and share ideas. Dedicated to uniting British industry, the UK collective relies on its members to help them amplify their voice for manufacturing and showcase the critical role of industry leaders in shaping the nation's future.

Sign the pledge now. Backing Britain pledge.

Join us in Westminster on 5th December to present the Backing Britain manifesto to the government. Register now.