Rhys Davies Logistics

Part of 3. Topical Questions – in the Senedd at 3:54 pm on 16 December 2020.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 3:54, 16 December 2020

Well, can I thank Mick Antoniw and say that there has clearly been a terrible treatment of loyal employees at this particular site? We are very, very concerned by some of the allegations that have been made against the company, particularly the allegation of misuse of the furlough scheme. I'd very much encourage Mick Antoniw to write to the UK Treasury regarding the points that he has raised today, and also I can assure him that my officials will be raising this matter with the Treasury as well.

Mick Antoniw raises a number of important points, including the support that could be offered to individuals and prospective buyers. We are keen to learn of any possible salvation for this company, so any potential buyer should make contact with the Welsh Government, and we'd examine what support we'd be able to give them. In terms of support for employees though, of course we've got a raft of measures in place that are going to be available to those affected, including, crucially, the ReAct programme, and other schemes, including personal learning accounts. We'll be working very much with the Department for Work and Pensions in ensuring that affected workers get all of the support, guidance and advice that can possibly be given.

Now, in terms of the suggestion of a solidarity fund, I think this idea does merit consideration. We have the social partnerships approach here in Wales, which enables trade unions to help shape support packages, and I'd very much encourage the Wales TUC to bring this potential scheme to the attention of my officials, so that it can be discussed at a future social partnership council.