The Heavens Reflect Our Labours

"The Heavens Reflect Our Labours"

The motto of the town of Scunthorpe, along with its coat of arms, was proudly displayed on our old school uniforms prior to the merger of Scunthorpe Boys School with the nearby Grammar School . 

I vividly recall the year 1968, particularly the black blazers paired with the green of the Grammar School. During that first morning assembly for Years 2 and 3, there was a sense of chaos that morning as we pushed and shoved each other, as if we were from entirely different worlds. During that time, it was almost a given that the majority of male children would be expected to find their future in the steelworks. I suppose that the children graduating from grammar schools were destined to become the local leaders in the industry, while those of us who did not pass the 11-plus exam and ended up in the local secondary modern schools would find our paths leading to blue-collar jobs in the industry. My formal education imparted a crucial lesson: the distinction between grammar schools and secondary modern schools was merely an exercise in divide and rule. Despite attending different schools, we all shared the same streets and played together on weekends and during holidays.

Comprehensive education in the United Kingdom was largely introduced by the Labour government in the 1960s. The key figure behind this initiative was Anthony Crosland, who served as the Secretary of State for Education and Science from 1965 to 1967. The aim was to create a more equal education system by replacing the tripartite system of grammar, secondary modern, and technical schools with comprehensive schools that would serve all children regardless of their ability or background. The concept gained traction and was implemented in various local education authorities throughout the UK.

Scunthorpe Steelworks Has A Rich And Storied History

A town built upon steel and It's former local commodity iron the crucial ingredient for the world's iron and steel industries, and is primarily used to make steel, which is then utilized in construction, transportation, and other industries.

The steelworks in Scunthorpe began to take shape in the late 19th century. The discovery of iron ore in the 1850s paved the way for the establishment of iron and steel industries. 

The Sheffield family played a significant role in the development of the steel industry in the UK, particularly in Sheffield, which became famous for its high-quality steel production. While the Sheffield family is more commonly associated with Sheffield's steel heritage, Scunthorpe also became a notable center for steel production in the 20th century.

The Scunthorpe steelworks, primarily developed by the British Steel Corporation, became one of the largest steel production facilities in the UK. It was established after World War II, with its roots tracing back to the ironworks that existed in the area. The region's iron ore reserves and its strategic location for rail and shipping contributed to its growth as a steel production hub.

The Sheffield family is often associated with the development of a unique type of steel known as crucible steel, which was produced in Sheffield from the 18th century onwards. This type of steel was known for its high quality and was used in various applications, including cutlery and tools. The family and other local industrialists helped establish Sheffield as a center for steel production, leading to innovations and advancements in metallurgy.

In contrast, Scunthorpe's steelworks emerged later, primarily in the mid-20th century. The area became prominent due to its rich iron ore deposits, which were essential for steel manufacturing. After World War II, the British Steel Corporation was formed, and Scunthorpe became one of its key production sites. The steelworks in Scunthorpe grew rapidly and became one of the largest integrated steelworks in the UK, contributing significantly to the local economy and employment.

The Scunthorpe steelworks underwent various changes and ownerships over the years, including privatisation and restructuring in the late 20th century. Despite facing challenges, including market fluctuations and competition from abroad, the site has continued to evolve and adapt to new technologies in steel production.

Today, the legacy of both Sheffield and Scunthorpe remains significant in the history of the British steel industry, showcasing advancements in engineering and metallurgy that have had lasting impacts on manufacturing. 

The Sheffield family, particularly figures like Benjamin Huntsman in the 18th century, pioneered the production of crucible steel. Their innovations laid the groundwork for Sheffield's reputation as the "Steel City," leading to advancements in tool-making and cutlery.

By the mid-20th century, as the demand for steel grew, the focus of steel production expanded beyond Sheffield. Scunthorpe emerged as a significant player due to its rich iron ore deposits.

This shift was not directly linked to the Sheffield family but rather to larger industrial developments and the formation of the British Steel Corporation in 1967.

During World War II

During World War II, steel production at Scunthorpe played a crucial role in supporting the war effort in the UK. 

The war led to a significant increase in the demand for steel, which was essential for manufacturing weapons, vehicles, ships, and other military equipment. Scunthorpe's steelworks were pivotal in meeting this demand.

To meet wartime demands, steelworks in Scunthorpe were expanded, and production processes were optimized. This included the use of modern techniques and equipment, which had been developed in the years leading up to the war.

The workforce in Scunthorpe adapted to the challenges of wartime production. Many men joined the armed forces, so women and older workers took on roles in the steelworks. This shift contributed to changes in labour dynamics and helped maintain production levels.

The experience gained during the war helped the Scunthorpe steelworks to transition into peacetime production, allowing them to continue to be a major player in the UK steel industry in the following decades.

At Its Peak In The 1970s

At its peak in the 1970s, Scunthorpe Steelworks employed around 30,000 workers. The saying goes that you could reliably set your watch by the moment Scunthorpe changed shifts, as a wave of bicycles would emerge from Appleby Frodingham. The facility was a significant part of the British steel industry during that time, contributing to both local employment and the national economy.

Industrial Action 

The history of strikes in Scunthorpe, particularly related to the steel industry, is significant and reflects broader trends in labour relations in the UK.

One of the most notable events occurred in the late 20th century when the steel industry faced challenges due to economic downturns and shifts in demand. The major strikes during this period often stemmed from disputes over pay, working conditions, and job security.

In the 1980s, the British steel industry underwent substantial restructuring, leading to numerous strikes as workers fought against layoffs and for better wages. The 1980s also saw the impact of privatization, which led to increased tensions between workers and management.

More recent industrial actions have occurred as the industry continues to deal with changing market conditions and competition from abroad, particularly in the face of globalization. Strikes in Scunthorpe have often been supported by broader labor movements and have highlighted issues such as workers' rights and the future of manufacturing in the UK.

Overall, the strike history in Scunthorpe is a reflection of the steel industry's evolution and the ongoing struggle for workers' rights in a changing economic landscape.

In the 1970s, Scunthorpe's steel industry experienced significant labour unrest, marked by unofficial strike actions. These strikes were part of a broader pattern of industrial action across the UK during a period characterized by economic challenges and labour disputes.

Unofficial strikes, also known as "wildcat strikes," occurred without the formal backing of trade unions. In Scunthorpe, these actions were primarily driven by dissatisfaction among steelworkers over pay, working conditions, and job security. The economic climate of the 1970s, marked by inflation and industrial decline, exacerbated tensions between workers and management.

The strikes in Scunthorpe reflected the frustrations of workers who felt that their concerns were not being adequately addressed through official channels. These actions often disrupted production and highlighted the critical role of steelworkers in the local and national economy. The 1970s were a turbulent time for labor relations in the UK, with Scunthorpe's steel industry being a focal point for broader industrial challenges.

During the 1970s, steelworkers in Scunthorpe engaged in unofficial strike actions that included dramatic demonstrations, such as stopping traffic. These actions were part of a broader wave of industrial unrest in the UK, driven by economic difficulties and dissatisfaction with working conditions and pay.

The decision to stop traffic was a tactic used by workers to draw public attention to their grievances and to exert pressure on both the management of the steelworks and the government. By disrupting daily life, the workers aimed to highlight the critical importance of the steel industry to the local economy and to underscore their demands for better wages and job security.

These actions were emblematic of the period's labour struggles, where unofficial strikes often occurred outside the framework of union-sanctioned activities. The steelworkers' actions in Scunthorpe were part of a larger narrative of industrial action during a decade marked by significant economic and social change in the UK.

The 1970s were marked by economic instability, including high inflation and unemployment. These factors put pressure on industries like steel, which were already facing global competition and declining demand.

The relationship between workers and management was strained, with workers feeling that their concerns over pay, job security, and working conditions were not being adequately addressed. This led to a rise in unofficial strikes as workers took matters into their own hands.

These actions often garnered significant media attention, bringing the issues faced by steelworkers into the national conversation. They also highlighted the broader challenges facing the UK's industrial sector during this period.

The most recent strike by Scunthorpe steelworkers occurred in 2019. This industrial action was part of a broader series of protests by workers at British Steel, driven by concerns over the company's financial difficulties and the potential impact on jobs and local economies. The strike was a response to the uncertainty surrounding the future of the steelworks, which had been placed into compulsory liquidation earlier that year. Workers were particularly concerned about job security and the preservation of the steel industry in the region. This period of unrest highlighted ongoing challenges in the UK steel industry, including competition from abroad and the need for government intervention to secure the industry's future. 

Nationalising And Investing Can Save The Industry 

While Scunthorpe Steel faces challenges, its future will depend on a combination of strategic investments, government support, and the ability to adapt to changing market and environmental conditions. The industry's resilience and adaptability will be key to securing its long-term viability.

It is possible to produce virgin steel in furnaces using carbon capture technology, and significant advancements have been made in this area. 

Producing virgin steel in furnaces with carbon capture technology is not only feasible but also a growing focus in the steel industry. With ongoing advancements, pilot projects, and supportive policies, the potential for developing these technologies further is significant.

I believe that relying on the market or private enterprises to develop this technology would not be effective. It is crucial for the well-being of the country and the local community that the government takes decisive action by fully nationalising the steel industry to protect and revitalise Scunthorpe.