THE Ministry of Defense was criticized for import steel rather than buying British.

Potential closures of blast furnaces Port Talbot And Scunthorpe have raised concerns that the UK could become dependent on foreign countries for steel, as it plans to switch to more environmentally friendly products. electric arc furnaces.

The electric arc type works by channeling a current through electrodes in the furnace, which is less energy intensive than blast furnace production and eliminates the need to use carbon-intensive coke.

In a written parliamentary question, Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, asked the government to explain how it ensures security of supply of steel for critical infrastructure and value for money when purchasing steel steel during the transition period.

The Department of Trade and Business has admitted that “neither Tata Steel nor British Steel are currently essential suppliers to UK defense programmes”.

It says that as the Port Talbot transition takes place, “Tata will import steel slabs and coils for a temporary period while the new electric arc furnace (EAF) is built.” However, the department stressed: “We continue to prioritize engagement with British Steel. »

He adds: “Neither Tata Steel nor British Steel are currently essential suppliers to UK defense programs. High-quality steel, notably for the Royal Navy’s new Dreadnaught-class submarines, is already being manufactured by EAF steel producers.