2. Urgent Question: The Ford Factory in Bridgend

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:29 pm on 7 February 2017.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 2:29, 7 February 2017

I think it’s worth pointing out—and I’d like to thank the leader of the opposition for his question. It’s worth pointing out that Ford have agreed to provide the information that has been asked for that will calm anxiety within the workforce. Discussions today have been very productive. Indeed, discussions between Welsh Government, the head of Ford Europe, Linda Cash, the workforce, trade unions and senior management have been constructive and productive for many months.

The decision was taken in Cologne; all key decisions by Ford Europe that concern Ford European plants are taken in Cologne. However, as I’ve stated in the past, we’re more than willing to go wherever is necessary in order to secure the future of the Ford Bridgend site. If that means going to Detroit, we will go to Detroit. But, we have been assured that the decisions are taken within Europe. And for that reason, we are engaging with the people who will make decisions on the future of Ford’s European plants.