Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Welsh steel industry is facing significant challenges due to delays in the Brexit deal and the pandemic, resulting in job losses and production shifts.
What steps are being taken by the Government to support the manufacturing industry in Wales, especially considering the impact of Brexit and the pandemic on companies like Airbus which has lost 1,400 jobs?
The Government has provided substantial support including £30 million loans and over £2 billion in direct support to businesses, along with a 10-point plan mobilising £12 billion investment. We have had robust exchanges with affected companies like Airbus and Celsa, rescuing jobs at the beginning of the pandemic.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to pressing the Chancellor for a sector-specific strategy or using long-term borrowing for recovery
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Shotton steel plant produces high-quality products, but the industry needs concrete action beyond words. The Prime Minister has promised support for UK steel in infrastructure projects.
Given that the PM has said UK steel producers will be prioritised in future infrastructure projects, why hasn't the Government set procurement targets yet? We need more than just warm words and blame shifting towards Europe.
We have been making significant strides in procurement and will continue to do so post-transition, without blaming others. Regular conversations are held within government to ensure value-for-money procurement that taps into the strong supply chain in the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address setting procurement targets for steel production
Did Not Blame Europe
Regular Conversations
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Shotton plant is a leading producer but needs specific government measures for long-term recovery post-pandemic.
After the Prime Minister's promise of prioritising UK steel in infrastructure projects, why are there no set targets or concrete action? Please provide more than just warm words and avoid blaming external factors like Europe.
We have been making big strides in procurement, including regular discussions with Welsh Government on tapping into the strong supply chain without blaming others or Europe. We aim for value-for-money and long-term sustainability.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to setting specific procurement targets
No Blame Shifting
Regular Discussions
Response accuracy