3. 2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:33 pm on 8 November 2016.

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Photo of Jane Hutt Jane Hutt Labour 2:33, 8 November 2016

Bethan Jenkins raises an important point. It was raised, I know, yesterday in the external affairs committee. I know that the First Minister responded to the point that was made about the fact that Theresa May has failed in her visit to India to make this all-important meeting contact with Tata Steel. It’s certainly been raised by David Rees as well. The First Minister said that this was unfortunate—unfortunate I would say for the Prime Minister, not taking her responsibility, but it’s certainly unfortunate and concerning in terms of the workforce in Port Talbot. But I think you can be assured, as I know you will be, about the action that we’re taking, not only in terms of constant engagement with Tata—and visits have indeed been made by the First Minister, as well as other Ministers—but in making sure that the steel industry has got a sustainable long-term future. Of course, the Cabinet Secretary did write to all AMs on 20 October to update them on activities relating to Tata Steel, and there is a range of potential support that’s being considered to ensure the business is put on a firmer footing. And I know that the Cabinet Secretary will want to update accordingly.