§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary concerning prospects for the steel plants in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [132381]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyThe First Secretary and I meet regularly and have held several discussions on prospects for the steel industry. We have also held meetings with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, with the Chief Executive of Corns and with representatives of the ISTC.
834WI deeply regret recent job losses announced in the steel industry. This is a commercial decision for the company, but the Government and the National Assembly for Wales are working in partnership to do all we can to help those affected. We have put together a package of measures and the First Secretary has confirmed that he is seeking to set up an all-Wales taskforce to help deal with the immediate consequences of the Corns announcement and with shaping a longer-term strategy for assisting the areas affected.
The best contribution the Government can make to the future of the industry is to secure long-term economic stability based on low inflation and sound public finances. This allows business to invest and plan ahead with confidence. It is this consistent, long-term approach which is the foundation for steady growth.