12-05-2025
What is left of Scotland's steel sector can play an important role for years to come
Scotland's steel industry is a shadow of its former self. Gone are the days when plants like Gartcosh and Ravenscraig employed thousands of workers.
But that's not to say that's what left of the sector cannot play an important role for years to come. The Dalzell works in Motherwell is one of only two mills left in Scotland and specialises in the production of heavy steel plate used in military shipbuilding.
But no finished product is leaving the site at present as its 140-strong workforce is either furloughed or on care and maintenance duties. Dalzell, like the Clydebridge steel works near Cambuslang, has been mothballed by its private foreign owners.
Keir Starmer is right to ask questions on what happens next for steel in Scotland. The UK Government has taken steps to nationalise the giant steel works in Scunthorpe and negotiated a reduction in tariffs with the US on exports.
The takeover of Dalzell and Clydebridge in 2016 by metals tycoon Sanjeev Gupta was facilitated by a Scottish Government-backed loan. With public money involved, the public has a right to know what's happening with the steel works in Lanarkshire.
Labour and the SNP can't make this another blame game, similar to how the last months of Grangemouth's oil refinery played out. There is no reason why the Lanarkshire steel works can't play a part in a wider UK industry linked to Scunthorpe.
But this will require grown-up cooperation between Holyrood and Westminster, not petty political point scoring.
Legends united
Football legends Graeme Souness and Scott Brown may have been on different sides of the Old Firm divide.
But they're joining forces to back a campaign by skin charity DEBRA to help people suffering from 'butterfly disease' EB. This agonising condition sees skin blister and fall off at the slightest touch.
Scots teenager Isla Grist is among the EB sufferers desperate for an effective treatment. To raise funds for research DEBRA are urging Scots to take part in a fundraising summer challenge.
Graeme and Scott are among thousands of Scots taking up the challenge – which is being backed by the Daily Record. You can do any challenge – a run, walk, cycle, swim, dance, or anything else you fancy.
So as the sun comes out at the start of a fine summer please take a look at Debra's website to see how you can join in. It's all for a great cause – and might do you some good too.
