In Parliament

Jessica Questions PM over Corus Jobs 29 January 2009

MP Questions Prime Minister on Corus Job Cuts

Jessica Morden (Newport, East) (Lab): Given the announcement this week of devastating job losses at Corus, over 500 of which are in my constituency in Llanwern, will the Prime Minister meet, as a matter of urgency, a group of MPs from the all-party steel and metal related industries group to consider what support can be given to this crucial part of our manufacturing base-and, crucially, to the steelworkers who have stuck with Corus through thick and thin and who now need our help?

The Prime Minister: We have talked to Corus, and we have said that whether it is through the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, the regional development agencies in Wales and in other parts of the country, or Jobcentre Plus, we will do everything we can. Steel is absolutely crucial to the manufacturing future of this country. We know from Tata, the owners of Corus, that it wishes to keep the steel plants moving forwards. Following the jobs summit, we are already working with Corus to look at what could be done to help with training costs for the future. I assure my hon. Friend that I will be very happy to meet her all-party group of MPs.

  

Jessica Morden MP - Response to Corus Jobs Announcement

Jessica Morden MP today said;

'This is a personal tragedy for those loyal and dedicated steelworkers and their families who face redundancy, especially as they had to learn about it through the Sunday newspapers. It is indeed a black day for the Steel Industry in Wales, for the businesses and the community that depend on it.

We all know the Company has been hit hard by the economic downturn and the massive decline in the car and construction industries has depleted the order book. However, in the past permanent irrevocable decisions have been taken during tough times. It is very important that this does not happen in this case and that is why I'll be doing all I can to work with the Government, Welsh Assembly and Unions to see what support packages are available for steel workers and the industry.

Steel is a vital industry in Wales and I am determined that when the upturn comes Llanwern will still be a major employer in Newport and that our steelworkers are the best position to benefit.'