In a stark warning, Gary Smith, the General Secretary of the GMB union, has declared that the UK government risks being remembered for inaction as the ceramics industry, a cornerstone of working-class employment, faces a slow-motion collapse. Speaking out, Smith emphasized that in a year, this moment could be seen as a missed opportunity to avert a disaster with decades-long repercussions for the country.
The Heart of the Industry in Stoke-On-Trent
Last July, Smith visited Stoke-On-Trent, meeting GMB members in the ceramics sector. He was accompanied by Sharon Yates, a long-time activist and sixth-generation potter, who works alongside her daughter and granddaughter at the renowned cup manufacturer Dunoon in Walton. Yates represents the 20,000 British workers in the potteries, locally known as ‘the Pots’, who depend on this industry to support their families and pay mortgages.
Economic Impact and Global Legacy
The UK ceramics industry contributes an estimated £2 billion to the economy and sustains 22,000 jobs nationwide. Its heritage is unparalleled, with every major ceramic industry globally tracing some lineage back to Stoke-On-Trent, the birthplace of modern industrial ceramics. Despite this, the sector is struggling to survive, with five major companies, including iconic brands like Wedgewood and Denby, announcing job losses, plant closures, or worse in the past year.
The Root of the Crisis: Energy Costs
Smith attributes the industry's woes to Britain's high production costs, driven by what he calls an obsession with waging war on gas. This has created a uniquely British problem where a treasured industry with future potential is being allowed to wither due to political indecision. He contrasts this with the Labour government's swift action to save jobs in the steel sector, questioning why similar clarity and speed are lacking for ceramics.
Call for Government Intervention
The government has options available, notably the Industry Supercharger scheme, which aims to alleviate spiralling energy costs for energy-intensive industries like ceramics. However, ministers have so far been unwilling to extend this scheme to the potteries. Smith argues that this move would be cost-neutral, straightforward, and supported by companies, industry bodies, and unions alike.
Political Consequences of Inaction
If the government fails to act, Smith warns it will be remembered for sitting on its hands while an industry relied upon by tens of thousands of working-class people collapses. This could lead to increased division, alienation, and further problems for the UK. The message is clear: bold political decisions are needed now to protect jobs, heritage, and economic stability in regions like the Midlands and beyond.
