Tata Steel and Thyssenkrupp

Part of 3. Topical Questions – in the Senedd at 3:29 pm on 15 May 2019.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 3:29, 15 May 2019

In terms of energy, of course, the UK Government, as has been said, have a huge role to play, but also I know that Members are keen for us to respond to the recently declared climate emergency. I think it's worth saying that, based on the recently published report from the Committee on Climate Change, it's very clear that it is in our interest to ensure that we do not lose steel making, even given the fact that it is a heavy carbon contributor. Why is that? Well, it's because the Committee on Climate Change clearly states that scenarios for reducing UK industrial emissions are dependent on retaining our industrial base and decarbonising it, rather than losing it to another country where it might not be decarbonsied. And, so, it's absolutely vital that we play our part, all of us, in ensuring that the heavier contributing industries in our country contribute less in the future, through investment. 

In terms of business rates, this is, of course, a matter that falls within the remit of my friend and colleague the finance Minister, and I'm sure that she'll be willing and enthusiastic to respond to questions concerning this matter. The most important thing for Tata, and the Member rightly raises commercial interest and commercial viability, the most important thing for Tata is that Tata Steel Europe maintains a focus on delivering the plan that was always in place, which is to ensure that sufficient investment is secured in order to modernise the facilities and to put them on a stable, long-term footing.