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The UK’s 2025 Critical Minerals Strategy

24 November 2025

Proposing MP
Chris McDonald Lab
Stockton North
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Business and Trade
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the publication of the UK's Critical Minerals Strategy for 2025, focusing on economic growth through domestic production and recycling of critical minerals.

Action Requested

The government will consider mechanisms to build resilience in the defence sector by stockpiling critical mineral resources through procurement mechanisms. The strategy also includes up to £50 million from the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance for critical mineral projects, with more details to be announced in 2026.

Key Facts

  • The UK has Europe's largest lithium deposit in Cornwall.
  • The UK has one of the largest nickel refineries in Europe in Clydach, Swansea.
  • The UK is a global source of tungsten and the only Western source for rare earth alloys used in wind turbines and F-35 fighter jets.
  • Up to £50 million will be available from the National Wealth Fund and UK Export Finance for critical mineral projects.
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