Sir Andrew Cook, chairman of the historic UK steel company William Cook Group, has delivered sharp criticism of politicians as his firm announced robust financial results for 2025. The County Durham and Yorkshire-based steel castings business reported turnover nearing £100 million and an increase in operating profits from £22.3 million to £24.2 million for the year ending June 2025.
Strong Performance in Defense and Rail Sectors
The group, which employs over 600 people across sites in the North East, Yorkshire, and Cumbria, credited its buoyant 2025 results largely to the performance of its defense business. This includes production of tank tracks and exports to more than a dozen allied nations, serving over 6,000 vehicles. Sir Andrew attributed this success to increased spending by NATO members and allies due to the "internationally unstable situation."
Additionally, the rail business prospered, with turnover slightly down from £14.5 million to £13.8 million but gross profit margin rising to over 23% and operating profits surging from about £71,000 to more than £556,000. The group holds contracts for various rolling stock, including underground trains, across the country.
Political Criticism Over Energy and Infrastructure
Despite the positive financial news, Sir Andrew used the accounts to lambast lawmakers, accusing them of "fiddling and flirting with costly and unreliable wind and solar while energy demand increases and black-outs loom." He emphasized that this is not his first criticism of Westminster, having previously called government efforts to revive UK manufacturing "wishful thinking."
In his remarks, Sir Andrew highlighted the rail sector's neglect by successive British governments, noting it has led to the absence of domestic train-builders. He criticized taxpayers' money being "squandered on the absurd and truncated HS2" while the rest of the system struggles.
Challenges in Industrial Business
The chairman acknowledged that the group's industrial business faced a difficult year with low order levels, but stated this was expected. He reassured that significant investment continues to prepare it for future demands, particularly in manufacturing ultra-high specification cast components for the nuclear industry.
Sir Andrew reiterated his long-standing stance on energy policy, quoting from a 2003 letter published in the Financial Times, warning that reliance on wind and solar could leave the UK without the factories and engineers needed for nuclear power. He concluded by affirming that William Cook Group remains "alive and kicking," and expressed gratitude for medical science keeping him in good health.
