💡 North Staffordshire Ceramics Industry: Energy Costs

Westminster Hall

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In a passionate debate, MPs from Stoke-on-Trent urged the government to support the ceramics industry, which is facing soaring energy costs that have led to job losses and company closures. They highlighted the sector’s vital role in the local economy and its potential in advanced technologies like defence and medical equipment. The Minister acknowledged the challenges and promised to explore options such as subsidies and exemptions to ease the financial burden on ceramics manufacturers. The discussion also touched on the need for infrastructure improvements and the potential of hydrogen technology to help decarbonize the industry.

Summary

  • Debate Focus: The parliamentary session focused on the need for government support to help the ceramics industry in North Staffordshire cope with rising energy costs.

  • Industry Impact: The closure of Royal Stafford, a ceramics firm, was highlighted as a recent example of how energy costs are affecting the industry. The closure resulted in over 80 job losses and underscored the urgency of the situation.

  • Economic Significance: The ceramics industry is vital to Stoke-on-Trent, employing over 3,000 people and playing a significant role in the local and national economy. It is crucial for maintaining jobs and skills within the community.

  • Energy Cost Increase: Ceramics companies reported energy bills increasing by up to 300% over the past decade. This escalation in costs is threatening the sustainability of businesses in the sector.

  • Government Support Requests: The industry requested subsidies for energy costs, particularly for smaller manufacturers. Other requests included expanding eligibility for the energy-intensive industries exemption scheme and mandating priority grid connections.

  • Decarbonisation Challenges: The transition to low-carbon methods is difficult for the ceramics industry due to high upfront costs and technological limitations. Suggestions included low-interest loans for energy-efficient equipment and exploring hydrogen technology.

  • Counterfeit Concerns: The issue of counterfeit ceramics from countries like China was raised, impacting UK businesses. A call was made for a review of import classifications for counterfeit products.

  • Government Response: The Minister acknowledged the challenges and committed to reviewing the requests in collaboration with relevant departments. The upcoming industrial strategy was mentioned as a potential avenue for supporting the industry.

  • Defence and Advanced Ceramics: The use of ceramics in defence, such as in submarines, was highlighted as an area where increased government spending could benefit the sector.

  • Community and Heritage: The ceramics industry’s historical and cultural importance to Stoke-on-Trent was emphasized, with calls to protect it for future generations.

Divisiveness

The session exhibits a low level of disagreement among the participants. The primary focus of the debate is on energy cost support for the ceramics industry in North Staffordshire, and all speakers are aligned in their goal to support the industry. The discussion is characterized by a collaborative and supportive tone, with multiple expressions of agreement and shared concerns about the industry’s future.

  • David Williams opens by acknowledging the input of his colleagues and expressing gratitude for the debate being held. He emphasizes the urgency and importance of supporting the ceramics sector without any dissenting voice challenging his view.
  • Jim Shannon from the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) commends Williams for raising the issue and suggests educational enhancements, which Williams agrees with and builds upon, indicating no disagreement but rather a cooperative approach.
  • Wendy Morton from the Conservative Party (Con) adds to the debate by pointing out another sector impacted by energy costs, and Williams supports her viewpoint, further illustrating the session’s collaborative nature.
  • Gareth Snell, another Labour MP, suggests increasing support for the industry, particularly in the context of defense spending, which Williams strongly supports, highlighting their mutual agreement on the matter.
  • The Minister for Industry, Sarah Jones, reiterates the government’s commitment to addressing the issues raised by Williams and others. She acknowledges the challenges and promises to consider various proposals, showing a willingness to work with the MPs to find solutions.

Throughout the session, there are no instances of direct opposition or disagreement on the necessity of supporting the ceramics industry. Any suggestions or interventions made are met with agreement and positive reinforcement, underscoring a unified stance on the issue at hand.