Don't let Ford 'tiptoe' away from Bridgend, union urges Government

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Union leaders are urging the UK Government not to allow car giant Ford to "tiptoe" away from its engine plant in south Wales after announcing its closure.

The GMB Union said more than half of the 1,700 workers factory in Bridgend wanted to stay and not face redundancy next year.

It said it discussed options for the way forward during a conference call with Business Secretary Greg Clarke, Welsh economy minster Ken Skates and the Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns on Monday.

The GMB union said more than half of the 1,700 workers wanted to stay at the plant

Workers returned to the plant on Monday for the first time since the company made the decision.

Mike Payne, GMB senior organiser, said: "Ford workers are heading back the plant today for the first time since the company's disgraceful decision to announce the closure of the factory.

"The company must not be allowed to tiptoe away from Bridgend leaving a decimated community in its wake.

"More than half of the workforce are desperate to stay at Bridgend. If Ford think they can slink away, they've got another thing coming.

"Ford must fulfil their obligations to the dedicated workforce in Bridgend."