Article
Trade & Tariffs

MPs back Breedon's call for tougher import tariffs on cement

New research claims around two-thirds of MPs want the government to level the playing field between UK and overseas cement producers, ahead of a carbon border tax due in January 2027.

by tickstock newsroom · Editor JMA
The image showcases the iconic Palace of Westminster in London, featuring the Houses of Parliament and the Elizabeth Tower, commonly known as Big Ben. A red double-decker bus crosses the bridge over the River Thames, under a clear blue sky. — Credit: Photo by N R on Unsplash c Photo by N R on Unsplash

Breedon Group, the UK-focused construction materials group, said research among MPs has found strong cross-party support for its campaign to protect domestic cement production.

The survey, conducted by Yonder Consulting among 102 MPs from all parties on behalf of Breedon's "Back British Cement" campaign, found around three-quarters back the group's overall policy asks.

Nearly two-thirds agree the government should address the cost imbalance between domestic and overseas cement producers.

The research also exposed gaps in awareness: only around a third of MPs say they understand the challenges facing UK cement, and just one in eight are confident the UK can meet its construction and infrastructure ambitions if domestic production keeps declining at its current rate.

Most MPs know of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), a tariff designed to tax imports based on their carbon emissions, but fewer than two in five are aware it is due to take effect in January 2027.

Breedon said it will step up engagement with government and opposition parties to press the case for a "workable" CBAM and sustained domestic cement production.

"We thank MPs for sending a strong message of support for our Back British Cement campaign," said chief executive Rob Wood, adding that the company wants "the government's unequivocal backing in deeds, not just words, of this foundation industry."

by tickstock newsroom