Staffordshire

Staffordshire is a county in England, historically known for its ceramics industry, particularly the "Potteries." Recent news highlights two distinct issues affecting the region. Firstly, the ceramics industry is facing a significant crisis due to high energy costs and other factors, leading to job losses and prompting calls for government assistance to prevent the loss of a crucial part of Britain's national identity. Secondly, Staffordshire is mentioned in connection with a neighboring local authority's investigation into a council chair from Warwickshire who owned unlicensed and unsafe rental properties located within Staffordshire. These properties, described as houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), had "multiple serious safety failures." This situation has led to the council chair's resignation. While unrelated, both events underscore current challenges and concerns within the county.