Unite Backs Heathrow's UK Steel Deal, Calls for Broader Action on Infrastructure
On February 12, 2025, Unite, the UK’s leading trade union, expressed its approval of Heathrow Airport’s commitment to using UK-produced steel in its expansion projects, including the third runway and terminal upgrades. The move comes after ongoing advocacy from Unite for the UK Steel Charter, which supports using domestic steel for major infrastructure developments, but the union asserts that more needs to be done.
A Step Forward for UK Steel
Unite has long pushed for clear rules that would mandate the use of UK-produced steel in public sector projects to ensure the survival and growth of the UK steel industry, particularly as it undergoes a transformation towards green steel production. The union emphasizes that these changes are necessary for economic growth and national security, especially in light of international challenges like steel tariffs.
Sharon Graham, Unite’s General Secretary, welcomed Heathrow’s commitment but stressed that this should become a standard practice for all major UK infrastructure projects. "It is madness that public money is still being used to buy foreign steel," she declared. "Other nations have pursued these practices for decades, and there’s no reason why the UK can’t follow suit.”
Stronger Procurement Rules Urged
Unite’s calls for a broader commitment to UK steel go beyond Heathrow’s recent decision. The union insists that public sector procurement rules must be rewritten to ensure that all publicly funded infrastructure projects use steel produced within the UK. This includes everything from transportation networks to housing projects and government buildings.
The UK steel sector is facing significant challenges, including international competition and the need to invest in greener technologies. The union argues that prioritizing UK steel is vital for economic resilience, especially as the UK transitions towards green technologies such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and other clean energy initiatives.
A Historic Commitment at Heathrow
As part of its commitment to using UK steel, Heathrow is also set to sign the UK Steel Charter during a special event at the British Steel plant in Scunthorpe later today. This is a significant step, marking the airport’s dedication to supporting domestic manufacturing in its major expansion plans.
Heathrow's decision is seen as a positive example for other major infrastructure projects in the UK. Unite hopes that this partnership will serve as a model for future projects, where domestic steel production is not only seen as a means of supporting the economy but also ensuring the national security of the UK.
Unite's Advocacy for a Green Future
Unite has also been a strong supporter of the development of a third runway at Heathrow, a project that could create thousands of jobs in construction and civil aviation. The union has emphasized the importance of ensuring that all jobs associated with the Heathrow expansion are well-paid and unionized, with workers benefiting from the security and rights that come with union representation.
In addition to supporting the expansion, Unite has called for the integration of green technology, including the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels, which they believe will benefit both workers and the UK economy in the long run.
The Bigger Picture for UK Steel
Heathrow’s commitment marks a significant step forward, but it’s clear that Unite sees this as just the beginning. They continue to call for broader reform and stronger policies that prioritize UK-produced steel in all major infrastructure projects, thus safeguarding the industry’s future while strengthening the nation’s economy and security.
Graham further noted the importance of addressing the steel industry’s challenges immediately, particularly with the looming steel tariffs that will be implemented by the US next month, which could further threaten the competitiveness of UK steel abroad. For the union, the move at Heathrow signals an opportunity to lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and secure future for the country’s manufacturing and steel sectors.
