Future of Welsh Steel

Inquiry3

The Economy, Trade, and Rural Affairs Committee has been set up by the Senedd to look at policy and legislation, and to hold the Welsh Government to account in specific areas. These areas include business, economic development, skills, international trade, agriculture, fisheries and food.

Following the announcement regarding the closure of the blast furnaces in Port Talbot the Committee agreed to hold evidence sessions to discuss the future of the steel industry in South Wales and the support for people affected by the closure and associated job losses.

The Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure Committee previously held a one-off session on the decarbonisation of the steel industry in south Wales with Tata Steel on 26 April 2023.

Following the Committee’s evidence session with Tata Steel UK on 7 February 2024 the Committee Chair issued a statement.

The Chair issued a further statement on 25 April following the conclusion of talks between Tata Steel UK and unions.

On 18 July 2024, the Committee wrote to the First Minister of Wales, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade and President of the Board of Trade, and the Secretary of State for Wales.

On 9 August 2024, the Committee received a written response from the Minister of State for Industry and the Secretary of State for Wales, UK Government.

On 28 August 2024, the Committee received a written response from the First Minister of Wales, Welsh Government.