| Britain’s largest union, Unite called for the UK government to honour promises to secure a future for the British steel industry by intervening to save our steel amid reports that Tata was putting its UK steel plants up for sale. Responding to the reports Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said: "This is a very dark day for the proud communities and a proud industry which is now on the verge of extinction in this country. “This news will leave workers and families not just in Port Talbot but in Rotherham and Stocksbridge reeling. Steel is in the veins of these communities. These workers make some of the best steel in the world and have worked hard to deliver for Tata, through thick and thin times. “They will feel a grim sense of betrayal by this decision, because they know that given half a chance they can make Port Talbot and sites across the UK profitable and successful. “Unite pledges that we will leave no stone unturned in our fight for their futures and for the industry. "My message to Sajid Javid and his government is that they cannot let another Redcar situation happen. Their dithering over intervention allowed the lights of that key industrial asset to be snuffed out. "Never again. Ministers must honour their promises to keep the lights over the UK’s steel communities burning. I will be seeking a meeting with them as a matter of urgency in order that steps to save our steel are taken by government without delay. “Too Tata itself, Unite’s message is that this workforce, the steel community and the British people who have supported their businesses over the years deserve the best treatment in return. Do everything in your power to have these vital assets handed back to this country in a shape that allows a serious buyer and a future to emerge.” ENDS - See more at: http://www.unitetheunion.org/news/government-must-intervene-to-save-our-steel-as-tata-puts-uk-steel-up-for-sale/?#sthash.gHgrT4kc.dpuf |