3. Urgent Question: 2 Sisters Food Group

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:45 pm on 2 November 2016.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 2:45, 2 November 2016

Yes, can I thank the Member for his question and, again, share his concerns for the workers that are affected in terms of the reasons given by the company and the rationale that we have learned of? The red meat sector in the UK is, of course, facing significant challenges, and the company believes that its Merthyr site is no longer sustainable. We wish to know why that is the case and why the decision was taken to relocate those positions to Cornwall. In terms of the conditions that were applied to the very generous support that we gave to the company not just to take over that site, but also sites on Anglesey and Flintshire, there was a minimum condition of 1,000 jobs for eight years. If those 350 jobs are lost, there would still be the 700 jobs. However, there would have to be an adjustment in terms of the support that we give the company, and therefore there would be the potential to claw back that support. I’ve been assured today that there are no implications in terms of jobs at other sites on Anglesey or in Flintshire, and that the other 700 jobs at the Merthyr site are safe. However, I’ve asked that my officials remain in close contact with the company during the consultation period with a view of us being able to assist in the best possible outcome for all of those people who could be affected by this decision.