Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has he made of the potential impact of the Government's recent policies in relation to British Steel on the Royal Navy's shipbuilding capacity.

The Ministry of Defence is developing a Defence Industrial Strategy that will align this Government’s national security and economic priorities. This will include a review of the UK’s approach to critical supply chain elements, such as steel, alongside reviewing and reconfirming the areas where the UK needs to retain sovereign production capacities onshore.

The decisive action taken by the Government on 12 April 2025 will safeguard steelmaking capabilities, protecting jobs, national security and supply chains. The Government is also bringing forward a steel strategy that will ensure a sustainable future for UK steelmaking. It will be published in Spring 2025, following consultation with industry and stakeholders. The strategy will establish a long-term vision for the industry, promoting long-term growth, that aligns with wider priorities including Invest 2035, the upcoming Industrial Strategy. Royal Navy shipbuilding capacity will not be negatively impacted by recent policies.