§ 14. Dr. FrancisTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the First Secretary of the National Assembly for Wales and Cabinet colleagues about the steel industry in Wales. [67885]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI meet regularly with the First Minister and Cabinet colleagues to discuss a range of issues including the steel industry in Wales.
I regret the news that the board of ASW Holdings plc has been unable to secure the agreement of its banks to provide continued support and has invited them to appoint administrative receivers over the business and assets of the company.
This is a potential blow to workers, their families and the company, but we hope that the receiver can find a way to enable the company to continue trading without a loss of jobs.
I know that the Wales Office, the National Assembly, the Welsh Development Agency and all the other organisations will work together to either find a new owner for the company or to help workers find alternative jobs.