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. As we know the root of the problem in the British steel industry is the glut of cheap steel imported from China, whose government subsidises its own loss-making industry. This allows Chinese firms to export steel around the world at rock-bottom prices.America is imposing tariffs of 256 per cent of the value on imports on some steels from China.The EU, by contrast, has imposed much lighter tariffs of between 9. and 13 per cent. Under the EU’s ‘lesser duty’ rules. Another reason for the crisis in the British steel industry is the Climate Change Act. Steel-making is hugely energy intensive but we no longer have cheap energy available.The reason is that green taxes and levies have been introduced in an attempt to meet the target for cutting UK carbon emissions.Thanks to Labour’s climate change levy, and also the renewable obligation forcing energy suppliers to buy a certain amount of their electricity from renewable sources.British steel has to pay 20-30 per cent more for its electricity than if it were making steel in Germany, and 50 per cent more than if it were in France. I doubt if many of us would want to go back to the days of nationalised industries propped up by the taxpayer. but its unlikely as EU rules prevent subsidizing UK industry if it can lead to an unfair advantage against other member states.even in situations such as Port Talbot where you have the works temporarily brought to its knees by low global steel prices. Once again the UK plays by the rules while others give us the two finger salute . Looks like yet another good reason the leave the EU.

I think we will always need this industry . Surely something can be done before it is to late. Market forces and the profit motive could have serious implications for the future. Those of us old enough to remember the mines closing here in Bedlington were sold a line about 'not needing the coal anymore'. The opencast coal operations still going strong are proof that it is still needed. The huge profits to be made have given us Northumberlandia. Now we may see more work at Widdrington. I hope something is done before it is too late. If the banks could be saved surely money could be found to save the steel industry. Transporting everything we need from all around the World is controversial.

It has been suggested that Tata doesn't actually want to sell Port Talbot, but wants it to fold. Why would this be? Well... sold, it would offer competition to its other plants, and quite amazingly it is in negotiations to actually buy German steel provider Thyssen. So much for Tata being a friend of the UK! One thing is very clear though, EU Dave is only offering platitudes, and is quite content to see a closure. To the posh-boys-playing-games it's just a temporary embarrassment, and nothing must get in the way of Dave's spell as Chairman of the EU Council of Ministers next year. Even if he loses the referendum he intends to hang on in there for his EU pension and perks. He's never held down a real job in his entire life; can't relate to industry, let alone working people, and has absolutely no sense of country. He thinks life entirely revolves around spin and presentation. There are dozens of competent people in the Tory party, yet they have to foist off this Etonian prat onto us! To top it all, there's now panic setting in that he's left the Falklands completely unprotected. Time to remove the two tinkering posh boys Tory Party - before the electorate does it for you.

I have found just the thing you need Canny Lass. A plug for your light and your tongs !