10 May 2024 , 08:33
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Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch has paid a visit to a British Steel plant amid ongoing discussions about the company's £1.25billion decarbonisation plan.
She visited the company's Scunthorpe-based headquarters, where the majority of Britain's rail tracks are produced. It's also the proposed site for one of two electric arc furnaces (EAFs) as part of the company's most significant transformation in its history towards net zero.
British Steel president and chief executive, Xijun Cao said: "We were delighted to welcome the Secretary of State to British Steel and to reiterate the vital importance of safeguarding the future of steelmaking in this country."
He revealed plans to open a new £10million rail storage facility at their Scunthorpe site soon, boasting their unique service of delivering 216-metre lengths of rail for installation in Britain's railways a service that reduces maintenance-caused delays for rail users. He added: "Significant preparation works, including environmental and technical studies, and equipment selection, are under way to ensure the company's ambitious proposals can be delivered at the earliest opportunity while discussions with the UK Government continue."
He also said that preliminary talks with trade unions about electrification have begun, with promises to support employees affected by its decarbonisation plans. "We are committed to working with the UK Government and need to reach an agreement quickly so we can achieve our ambitious goals, secure thousands of jobs and keep making the steel Britain needs."
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