The Secretary of State will visit and tour Valero’s
refinery in Pembroke, where Vice President and general
manager, Edward Tomp will update him on the company’s
operations.
He will then undertake a tour of the site to see up
close the 220,000 barrel per day facility that is one
of the largest fuel manufacturers in northwest Europe
and one of the largest employers in the region.
With a workforce of over 500 people, with hundreds more
employed as contractors, Valero refinery plays a
pivotal role in the prosperity of the West Wales
economy.
Speaking ahead of his visit, will underline the
company’s continued investment in its Pembroke site as
a testament to the strength of its people and the
confidence it has in the business environment in Wales.
Secretary of State for Wales said:
The oil industry is crucial to the UK’s future energy
security, economy and our cross-government industrial
strategy.
The contribution the Valero refinery makes to the
regional and wider economies in Wales and the UK
cannot be underestimated. Be it through job creation
or community engagement, Valero plays a pivotal role
in the lives of the people who live in this area.
I want to make it clear that this industry has the
full support of the UK Government.
As one of the Wales’ largest industrial sectors with
one of the most highly skilled workforces in the
world, we are determined to continue to work together
to secure its long-term success.
We will continue to ensure that we have the right
policies in place to generate the necessary
investment in energy infrastructure whilst ensuring
important investors like Valero in Wales and the rest
of the UK remain competitive.
Edward Tomp, Vice President and General Manager at Valero
Pembroke Refinery said:
Valero is delighted to welcome the Secretary of State
to Pembroke Refinery, so he can see for himself the
impressive work being done day in, day out in West
Wales in this vital industry. Being responsible for
15% of Welsh exports Valero is a major part of the
economy in Wales and we are grateful for the UK
Government’s continued support for the downstream oil
sector, which is key in terms of economic growth,
employment and energy security for Wales and the UK.