Union boss urges embassies to use British ceramics

GMB boss Gary Smith says he wants UK embassies abroad to use British-made tableware

A union boss has written to the Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, urging the government to ensure the country's embassies abroad use UK ceramics and tableware.

GMB Union general secretary Gary Smith said the sector supported a workforce of more than 20,000 people, who were among the "world's most highly skilled potters".

The letter comes as the union's Pottery Pledge campaign calls on businesses and individuals to buy from its recognised list of British manufacturers, with Smith adding that it would send a clear message of support.

The Foreign Office has been contacted for a comment.

"Spiralling gas costs along with counterfeit products swamping the market have driven up costs for manufacturers whilst driving down demand for UK produced goods," Mr Smith said.

Three ceramics firms - Royal Stafford, Heraldic Pottery and Moorcroft - collapsed earlier this year, though the latter was since purchased by the founder's grandson.

TG Green took on 17 former Royal Stafford workers when it took over the site in March and three more have been recruited since then, according to general manager Paul Burston.

'Clear messsage'

"By committing to supply their ceramic and tableware needs with UK made pottery, the department would send a clear message that we put UK manufacturing at the heart of everything we do as a country," Mr Smith added.

In June, the GMB said the government's industrial strategy, which launched that month, was a "vital step" toward safeguarding the pottery industry.

As part of the strategy, the government said about 500 eligible businesses, including those in the steel, chemical, ceramics and glass sectors, would have their network charges cut.

Some bosses have complained ministers were paying "lip service" while the industry was "on its knees" and in desperate need of support.