Support measures a 'missed opportunity' say ceramics firms

Cheaper bills for some is 'not enough'

- Phil Corrigan

THE Government's new industrial strategy has been described as a 'missed opportunity' to support ceramics manufacturers.

Ministers say the new strategy will slash electricity costs for thousands of businesses, unlock billions of pounds of investment and kick off a new era of collaboration between government and high-growth industries.

But Ceramics UK, which represents dozens of manufacturers in Stoke-on-Trent and across the country, says the Government has failed to recognise the importance of the pottery industry. The sector has been hit by rocketing energy prices in recent years, which was a major factor behind the recent collapse of Stoke-on-Trent-based pottery firms Royal Stafford and Moorcroft.

Ministers say more than 7,000 businesses will see their electricity bills cut by up to 25 per cent by 2027 through a new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme. And a small number of ceramics manufacturers will be among 500 energy-intensive firms that will see increased discounts on their electricity charges under the British Industry Supercharger.