Tata Steel update (27 June 2024)

The news that Tata could switch off Blast Furnaces 4 and 5 at Port Talbot next week is extraordinary and will cause huge anxiety for the workforce, their families and the community.

The Welsh Government cannot and will not support the closure of both blast furnaces. As we have said many times, the company should wait for the outcome of next week's General Election before taking irreversible decisions. Acting whilst the nation goes to the polls does not help to deescalate matters.

The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Welsh Language held talks with the company earlier today. Urgent and good faith negotiations are now required to ensure safety at the site and avoid an outcome that would have such a severe and lasting impact on Port Talbot, Wales and the UK.