Part of 7. Topical Questions – in the Senedd at 3:25 pm on 1 July 2020.
Can I thank Jack Sargeant for his supplementary question and say that we are determined to work with Governments in Westminster and in Flintshire, and across the region, to ensure that we get the best possible prospects for those people who are affected by today's announcement? Of course, we would wish to minimise the numbers that have been announced, and we will seek support from the UK Government in striving to achieve that.
As you'll be aware, Jack, we've invested millions upon millions of pounds in the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre to ensure that we capture the Wing of Tomorrow programme, and that remains our long-term strategic aim to ensure that the future of wing making is secured for Broughton.
In the very short term, in order to create a bridge to the point where Airbus in Broughton has that strong future prospect—[Inaudible.]—has to be given by UK Government to supporting those workers with a prolonged furlough scheme so that, if at all possible, a shorter working week can be implemented at the site.
Now, in addition to this, recognising that aviation is a reserved matter, the UK Government should look very closely at recommendations made by the Aerospace Wales Forum and Airbus, and others, including the potential for an air scrappage scheme, which could stimulate activity within the aerospace sector. And also, the need to recognise that additional research and development funding is required for the sector.
Now, we are offering up a unique opportunity, with the advanced research and technology centre that is planned for the Deeside area. That gives the UK Government an opportunity, through the Ministry of Defence, to invest in the site, in that particular facility, and to ensure that we can capture and hold on to the best skilled people, possibly, within the sector.