40,000 Signatures Demand Government Energy Relief for Denby Pottery, Ceramics Industry

A petition advocating for government financial support for the ceramics industry has garnered over 40,000 signatures, with campaigners aiming for 100,000 to trigger a parliamentary debate. The initiative follows the administration of Denby Pottery on 31 March, a company established in 1809, which attributed its difficulties to surging energy and labour expenses.

Call for Sector Inclusion

Hayley Baddiley, a former marketing director at Denby Pottery, is leading the call for the ceramics industry to be included in the British Industry Supercharger scheme. This programme currently provides electricity cost relief to sectors deemed strategic, such as steel and chemicals. Baddiley argues for a 'level playing field', stating that UK ceramics firms face some of the highest industrial costs globally.

The ceramics industry, described as a 'foundation industry', employs over 20,000 people across the UK and contributes an estimated GBP#2 billion to the economy. While acknowledging it may be 'too late' for Denby Pottery, Baddiley believes inclusion in the scheme is crucial to safeguard other companies from collapse.

More than 80 Denby Pottery employees have been made redundant as administrators seek a buyer. Amber Valley MP Linsey Farnsworth supports the petition, emphasising the rapid public backing as a powerful message to government colleagues. Farnsworth views government support as a 'key factor' in attracting new investors to Denby Pottery.

Government Response

A government spokesperson stated that officials 'regularly meet with Ceramics UK and trade unions to discuss support for the sector', acknowledging the 'difficult time' for historic industries like potteries and ceramics.