Cost-cutting 'not the answer'

Unite is calling for urgent talks to discuss the implication for jobs at Tata’s UK sites, as it is expected that 1,250 jobs across Europe are under threat at the steel giant.

 

Last November it was expected that job losses could be in the region of 3,000 across Europe, but that figure has now been lowered.

 

Before Christmas, Unite said it was not prepared to stand by and let possible job losses to go ahead at the Port Talbot plant in Wales and at other sites across the UK which employ a total of about 8,500 workers.

 

Unite officer with national responsibility for Tata Steel Tony Brady said,”Unite is today calling for urgent talks with Tata Steel management to ascertain the exact implications for jobs in the UK, especially in Wales where the company has a large presence.

 

“Although the figure for possible job losses across Europe now appears to be smaller than originally thought, we will campaign against any job losses. We don’t believe that the company’s plans, which are centred on cost cutting, are the answer,” he added.

 

“We will be seeking cast iron assurances on future investment and employment. What top executives need to focus on is reversing years of underinvestment.

 

“We appreciate that the UK industry continues to face unique challenges, such as the high energy costs compared with its European competitors, but we will not stand by and let one of the cornerstones of British industry be reduced even further.”