Government negotiates US steel tariff reduction to protect jobs

As part of its wider trade deal, the Government has successfully negotiated a deal with the US to reduce tariffs on British steel – a move that provides vital protection for jobs in the UK steel sector.

This agreement comes following concerns about the potentially damaging impact that US tariffs would have had on the industry and its workforce.

The deal follows previous Government intervention at British Steel last month, indicating a pattern of support for the steel industry under the Labour administration.

The measures are aimed at creating stability and certainty for both employers and workers in a sector that has faced significant challenges in recent years.

Alasdair McDiarmid, assistant general secretary at Community, said: “The UK Government deserves enormous credit for negotiating this deal to reduce US tariffs which would have had a hugely damaging impact on our steel sector.

“This new agreement will protect jobs here in the UK, and provides much-needed certainty. Following on from the decisive action taken at British Steel last month, today’s news again demonstrates the Labour government’s firm commitment to delivering for our steel industry.

“We will continue to work with the Government to deliver for our members and secure a vibrant UK steel industry for the future.”

The agreement represents a significant development for UK steel industry workers, coming at a time when job security in manufacturing sectors has been under pressure.

Industry representatives have welcomed the move as an important step toward ensuring the long-term viability of steel production in the UK and preserving skilled employment in the sector.