Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

British Glass Industry

14 July 2022 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Conor McGinn Lab St Helens North

ClimateEnergyBusiness & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Conor McGinn raised concerns about british glass industry in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Glass industry contributes 1.3 billion annually to the UK economy and supports 6,000 direct jobs and 150,000 indirect jobs.
  • Industry faces challenges including rising energy costs, carbon leakage risks, and the need for sustainable practices.
  • Minister Nigel Evans acknowledged the industry's importance and noted a visit to a carbon capture project near St Helens.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Conor McGinn Lab St Helens North

Glass is a critical part of St Helens and the UK economy, contributing £1.3 billion annually with direct employment for 6,000 people and indirect support for around 150,000 jobs. The industry has a rich history in Britain, dating back to Ravenhead's British Cast Plate Glass Company in 1773 and Pilkington Brothers' float glass process in 1952. Glass production is essential for daily life and technological advancements, from energy-efficient windows to optical technologies. The sector faces challenges such as rising energy costs, carbon leakage risks, and the need for sustainable manufacturing practices. The industry aims for net zero emissions through improved efficiency and recycling efforts but requires government support. Conor McGinn urged the Government to address energy security issues, propose a £600 million contingency fund for energy-intensive firms, and clarify eligibility criteria for compensation schemes.

Other contributors (2)
  • Greg Hands Con Hammersmith

    He acknowledged the importance of glass manufacturing to UK exports and foreign direct investment. He also mentioned a visit to HyNet North West carbon capture, utilisation and storage cluster near St Helens.

  • Nigel Evans

    Made a brief humorous comment about raising a glass during the debate.

Government Response

Nigel Evans

Minister Nigel Evans briefly acknowledged the importance of the British glass industry and expressed support for its role in UK exports and foreign direct investment. He mentioned a visit to the HyNet North West carbon capture, utilisation and storage cluster near St Helens. While he did not provide extensive details on policy commitments or timelines, his comments underscored the Government's recognition of the sector’s value.

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