Steel Industry 2020-01-15
2020-01-15
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Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Liberty Steel is cutting 72 jobs in Newport, and the Orb steelworks were mothballed at Christmas.
What recent discussions has the Secretary of State had with Cabinet colleagues on the future of the steel industry in Wales given the job cuts and plant closures?
The process is already happening. The Secretary of State is sitting down not only with ministerial colleagues but also with Labour colleagues, unions, and management to address the issues. He acknowledges the impact, uncertainty, and worry caused by current circumstances and stresses the shared responsibility with the Welsh Government to steady the situation.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Welsh Government Economy Minister Ken Skates has asked the UK Government to intervene more directly on energy prices.
Given the Welsh Government's request, will the Secretary of State use his voice in Cabinet to call for intervention on reducing energy prices?
The UK Government made £53 million available by way of compensation for energy prices. The Secretary of State encourages addressing business rates and suggests that Welsh Government can help with certainty around steel through this route.
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