Unite 30,000 strong Support UK Steel petition handed to Hartlepool politicians

The hand over took place at the South Durham Social Club, in Westbourne Road, on Friday evening.

It is part of Unite the union’s Support UK Steel campaign which is calling on Westminster to provide a “long-term plan” for a strong UK steel industry.

Steelworkers, local politicians, and supporters attended the handover when the petition was accepted by Hartlepool’s Labour parliamentary candidate Jonathan Brash and party colleagues.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The UK government’s lack of support or any long-term plan for steel is putting a sector which can and should have a bright future at risk.

"The public and steelworkers know there is another better way forward.

“In Germany, France and the Netherlands capacity is being retained and jobs protected as the sector transitions to green steel.

"That can happen here too. The demand for steel is expected to increase ten-fold over the coming years and the UK is perfectly placed to become a global leader in its production – if the right choices are made.”

Labour has pledged to invest £3bn in the industry if it wins the next general election due before the end of this year.

Mr Brash said he was honoured to attend the event adding: “We need to save the well-paid, skilled jobs in the British steel industry and its supply chain and support the industry to grow more jobs.

"Steel from Hartlepool and Teesside built the world, and Britain can be an industrial powerhouse again if we protect more jobs from being taken abroad.”

Hartlepool resident and ex-steel worker John Hart said: “I served my time at British Steel and enjoyed the benefits of a decent apprenticeship.

"It’s only fair that our young people should enjoy the same opportunity – it’s about time that we start campaigning for future generations and investment in UK Steel.”

Businesswoman Sharron Willis added: “We all must stick together. Our businesses and community need to be maintained and improved.”

A campaign banner was displayed during a Hartlepool United game on Good Friday and estate agent signs were put up in Middleton Road.