Reports during the weekend suggested that Tata Steel plans to shut two blast furnaces and replace them with electric arc furnaces, leading to thousands of job losses in the UK
GMB, the steelworkers’ union, is holding urgent talks with Tata Steel over the growing fears of job losses.
Ross Murdoch, GMB national officer, said: “We spoke to Tata Steel senior management over the weekend to discuss these reports. The company will be arranging a meeting of the UK Steel Committee as soon as possible.
“At this meeting, GMB and sister steel unions will be seeking a response and clarification from the company.
“Through our regular meetings with BEIS, GMB has become aware some steel companies have sought Government support as they navigate their way through the Covid-19 pandemic.
“GMB will fight to protect our members’ jobs in Port Talbot and ensure the prosperity they – and the wider supply chain – bring to the town remains.”
“GMB backs the UK Steel Charter and Covid-19 Restart and Recovery demands, which call on the Government to support construction, accelerate infrastructure investments and to support UK Steel employers in terms of electricity prices and business rates to make them more attractive for future low-carbon steel production.
“GMB has joined the call on ministers to provide stimulus to safeguard the industry and drive the next phase of recovery and growth – but any support must secure jobs of our members in the steel industry.
