Scramble to deal with political fallout of Tata decision

  • Wales

Politicians in Cardiff Bay and Westminster are scrambling to deal with the political fallout of Tata Steel's decision to sell its UK business including its steelworks at Port Talbot.

The UK Government says it's considering all options, which are thought to include temporary nationalisation, or supporting workers and management with a buyout of Port Talbot.

Meanwhile there's pressure for the Assembly to be recalled to discuss the crisis. I understand it could be reconvened next Monday with a possible emergency committee meeting next Tuesday.

You can expect a good deal of talk about working together across parties and governments, but a lot of finger pointing too.

Most of that finger pointing is directed at the Conservative UK Government which is accused of failing to do enough to protect British steel and help Tata cope with a growing range of difficulties.

Ministers have been said to be too slow to help with high energy costs, too unwilling to act against cheap imports from China and too willing to blame EU rules for the slow pace of help.

There's criticism that no UK minister went to India where Tata's board held its pivotal meeting yesterday. And David Cameron himself is under fire for holidaying in Lanzarote as the crisis unfolded.

But ministers say they have done and are doing all they can.

Most of that finger pointing is directed at the Conservative UK Government which is accused of failing to do enough to protect British steel Credit: PA

The Welsh and UK Governments have issued a joint statement:

"This is a difficult time for workers in Port Talbot and across the UK. During the review process, we remain committed to working with Tata and the unions on a long term sustainable future for British steel making.

Both the Welsh and UK governments are working tirelessly to look at all viable options to keep a strong British steel industry at the heart of our manufacturing base.”

The First Minister issued his own separate statement:

"I want the Welsh steelworkers and their families to know that no stone will be left unturned in our bid to support you through what comes. Whilst we have serious disagreements with the U.K. government on many issues at the moment, we will work with them, and anyone else, who can help to secure a sustainable steel industry in Wales."

"Wales has faced up to tough times before, and we will always stand in solidarity with our brilliant, skilled workforce and with our communities."

Ministers have been said to be too slow to help with high energy costs and too willing to blame EU rules for the slow pace of help. Credit: PA

Meanwhile a recall of the Assembly seems highly likely. AMs had left Cardiff Bay for Easter recess and hadn't expected to return because the Assembly is due to be dissolved next week ahead of May's election.

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies led the demand for a recall, writing to the Presiding Officer and Chief Executive suggesting Monday as the best day for an emergency session.

But other parties have all supported the calls. Liberal Democrat Peter Black said:

"This is clearly a matter of urgent public importance and therefore it is inconceivable that the Assembly doesn’t reconvene."

“Ministers in both governments need to act fast. Simply holding up their hands and saying they are out of ideas is simply not good enough."

And Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood said:

"The National Assembly is currently in recess but must be recalled in order for all parties in Wales to coordinate a political response focused on safeguarding the future of this vital industry."