GMB Union criticises government for ignoring industries in new scheme
British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme bypasses ceramics sector, sparking backlash
Last updated 17th Apr 2026
Members of the GMB Union have expressed outrage at the government’s exclusion of certain key manufacturing sectors from the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS).
Announced today, BICS aims to reduce electricity bills by up to 25% for more than 10,000 manufacturers from April 2027.
However, the scheme has come under fire for neglecting industries like ceramics, which play a critical role in the UK’s manufacturing landscape.
According to GMB, the government's oversight is a "total disgrace," as gas-intensive industries such as ceramics have been left without much-needed support.
Gary Smith, GMB General Secretary, said: “Gas intensive industries in the UK have been shamefully ignored by the Government in this announcement – it’s a total disgrace.
"GMB members grafting in our world-famous ceramics sector and making the bricks that build our nation are sickened at the lack of support.
"Workers in manufacturing companies across the UK need urgent help – this isn’t it.”
Exclusion of Ceramics Raises Concerns
The exclusion of the ceramics sector has prompted Labour MPs from the Potteries to warn of possible closures and job losses among ceramic manufacturers.
They have secured a meeting with the business secretary to review the situation for tableware, giftware, and tiles.
During a session in the House of Commons, Gareth Snell, MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central highlighted that the exclusion threatens jobs and could lead to more factory closures, potentially offshoring production and increasing reliance on high-carbon imports, counteracting the government's housebuilding targets.
Gareth said: “There is now recognition that Britain faces an industrial energy crisis, and I welcome action for some sectors. But the ceramics sector has once again been left out.
"There is nothing here for tableware, giftware, tiles, clay pipes or bricks despite the government’s target to build 1.5 million homes. Instead, we’ll import bricks made in coal fired kilns and shipped halfway around the world, rather than making them in North Staffordshire.
“Ceramics employs tens of thousands of people, supports exports, and underpins British manufacturing. We were told help would come in the Budget, then the Autumn Statement, then the Industrial Strategy and now BICS. Factories will close because of this decision. Jobs will be lost.
“The government must decide whether it is prepared to act, or whether it is content to oversee the end of domestic ceramics production in the UK.”
Government Response
Despite criticism, the government highlights BICS as a pillar of their modern Industrial Strategy, aiming to bolster competitiveness and support sectors like automotive, aerospace, steel, and pharmaceuticals.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves stated: “This Government has the right plan for the economy: backing British industry, cutting electricity costs, and building a stronger, more resilient future.
"Today’s announcement will cut energy bills for over 10,000 manufacturers, helping businesses to compete, win and create good jobs across the country, and to deliver our modern Industrial Strategy.”
Business Secretary Peter Kyle added: “We are a government of action, and when global instability puts businesses under pressure we’ll always do what’s needed to support them and ensure Britain’s resilience.
"By extending the reach of BICS by 40 percent, we’re acting decisively to tackle the number one issue that businesses face head-on.”
The government asserts that the extended eligibility targets energy-intensive firms facing high electricity costs, with 2027 seeing significant savings anticipated.
The BICS programme, expanding by 40%, will include a one-off additional payment covering support from April 2026.
A second consultation on regulatory changes is underway until 14th May 2026, with forthcoming legislation expected by Autumn 2026.