Rajesh Nair, Tata Steel UK CEO, has appeared before the House of Commons Business and Trade Select Committee as an expert witness for their inquiry into the UK’s Industrial Strategy.
Reflecting on the hearing Rajesh Nair said:
“It was great to have the opportunity to discuss with the Committee the importance of securing a modern industrial strategy – one that must go hand in hand with a strong steel strategy.
"There are immediate steps the Government could take today, such as procurement reform, further relief on energy costs, and strengthening trade safeguards" Rajesh Nair
“Today, the UK steel industry faces significant challenges, from economic uncertainty and high energy costs to the impact of US tariffs and global overcapacity. A successful and modern industrial strategy must recognise that meaningful change takes time, but a clear long-term vision is essential.
“At Tata Steel, we believe there are immediate steps the Government could take today, such as procurement reform, further relief on energy costs, and strengthening trade safeguards. At the same time, bold and decisive action is needed to enhance the industrial competitiveness of the UK steel sector.
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“We are making progress on our plans to build a state-of-the-art 3 million tonne-per-year Electric Arc Furnace, having recently signed a contract with Tenova and secured planning permission from Neath Port Talbot Council.
"We are excited to take this next step towards 'green' low CO2 steelmaking and we look forward to working closely with the UK Government to ensure a modern Industrial Strategy that fully aligns with the future of UK steel.”

Tata Steel UK CEO Rajesh Nair
Witnesses:
- Rajesh Nair, Chief Executive, Tata Steel UK;
- Jon Bolton, Chair, Materials Processing Institute, Co-Chair, Steel Council;
- Allan Bell, Chief Commercial Officer, British Steel;
- Alasdair McDiarmid, Assistant General Secretary, Community Union