Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Wales Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Tom Pursglove Excerpts
Wednesday 13th April 2016

(8 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Guto Bebb Portrait Guto Bebb
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The right hon. Lady asks an important question. There is more work to be done and, again, there is a need to work together on this issue. However, I would highlight the fact that more and more people with disabilities are now in work—152,000 more in the past 12 months and over 300,000 more in the past 24 months. We need to ensure that the successes we are seeing across the country are replicated in Wales.

Tom Pursglove Portrait Tom Pursglove (Corby) (Con)
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4. What assessment he has made of risks to the future of the steel industry in Wales.

Alun Cairns Portrait The Secretary of State for Wales (Alun Cairns)
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The steel industry is currently dealing with unparalleled global economic conditions and the UK is deeply concerned by the social and economic impact that they are having in south Wales. While we cannot change the status of the global steel market, our objective remains to overcome the challenges and play a positive role in achieving a sustainable future for the steel industry in Wales and across the UK.

Tom Pursglove Portrait Tom Pursglove
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I thank the Minister for that answer. Does he agree that in order to secure the future not only of the Port Talbot site but of Tata sites around the UK, no option should be ruled out?

Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns
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I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the way in which he has represented the interests of his constituents and of those who depend on steelmaking in his area. He recognises the way in which the plants are interlinked and he has been working closely with the Business Secretary and me to help to support a secure future. I can reassure him that no stone will be left unturned to secure a long-term future for the Corby plant as well as for every other plant across the UK.