9. Urgent Question: Tata Steel

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:18 pm on 7 December 2016.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 6:18, 7 December 2016

I would like to thank John Griffiths for his questions and say that, whilst I am very grateful for his kind words, I do believe that it is the First Minister who has led on this issue, and has been able to ensure that we are at the point where we are today. I’d also say that Assembly Members have expressed concern over the future of the steel industry from across the Chamber, and I think Assembly Members right across the political spectrum will be relieved and will welcome today’s announcement.

The ‘Save Our Steel’ campaign has been a huge success, and I think those who have led it, and most of all those who have participated in it, have ensured the long-term future of steel working for future generations, potentially, their children, and many people who could be employed in the sector in the years to come. This announcement does of course cover Llanwern and all the other steel sites, because without Port Talbot, each of those steel sites in Wales would be left fatally exposed. I should have added just previously that the package of support that I’ve announced today of more than £4 million is of course relevant and open to steelworkers at all of the Welsh sites.