Extract from Wales Assembly: Topical Questions: The Trostre Plant in Llanelli - Apr 3

Thursday, 4 April 2019 07:58

David Rees AM:...I do worry about this, because it's not just Trostre being mentioned; Tata are also divesting themselves of Cogent—the Orb works in Newport. It seems that Tata are divesting themselves of resources more than ThyssenKrupp in this joint-venture approach. So, what discussions are you going to have with Tata? You mentioned Hans Fischer, but perhaps we need to go above Hans Fischer to see where we actually have...Request free trial

David Rees AM:...I do worry about this, because it's not just Trostre being mentioned; Tata are also divesting themselves of Cogent—the Orb works in Newport. It seems that Tata are divesting themselves of resources more than ThyssenKrupp in this joint-venture approach. So, what discussions are you going to have with Tata? You mentioned Hans Fischer, but perhaps we need to go above Hans Fischer to see where we actually have Tata's future in this place. Because I'm deeply concerned that when Bimlendra Jha left his position, there was no UK representation, effectively, for Tata in the UK, and particularly in Wales; it's left then, perhaps, to Martin Brunnock to be the senior person here. So, we need to have a look at having discussions with Tata in India, perhaps, to discuss what their future plans are for the industry in Wales as a whole, because this comes as a package...

Ken Skates AM (Minister for Economy and Transport): Can I thank David Rees for his questions and for his ongoing support for the steel industry in Wales? I should point out that, in terms of discussions that are taking place at the European Commission, this is, of course, a confidential negotiation between the European Commission and the joint venture partners, so it wouldn't be the place of Government to get involved in discussions with the European Commission. Our role has always been to create the right environment in which steel-making operations in Wales can be competitive and have a strong, bright future.

In terms of the question on whether Trostre would go on sourcing its steel from Port Talbot, of course, this will be a key concern of discussions that are going to take place between ourselves and Tata in the weeks to come. I am seeking discussions with the heads of Tata India's business, including, of course, with Bimlendra Jha, who's now returned to India, but with whom we still enjoy a very constructive relationship.