End ‘rollercoaster of uncertainty’ call

Unite called on the Tata board to give Tata Steel workers assurances and end the ‘rollercoaster’ of uncertainty following news today (May 10) that a joint venture with ThyssenKrupp is effectively off.

“Unite will be pressing the board of Tata over its plans for Tata Steel in the wake of news that the proposed joint venture with ThyssenKrupp is effectively off,” said Unite national officer for steel Tony Brady.

“Tata Steel’s workforce has been on a rollercoaster of uncertainty for several years. When we meet the Tata board we will be telling it that it is a ride that has to end and demanding assurances over jobs and investment.

“Tata Steel’s workforce has made great sacrifices to secure a future for the steelmaker. It would be a betrayal if their livelihoods were now put at risk because of this doomed joint venture.

“Tata Steel needs to give workers the assurances that their futures are secure. The government must stand ready to step in with assistance for Tata Steel and play its part too.

“Sky high energy costs are leaving steelmakers competing with their European competitors with one hand tied behind their backs.

“The government can and should go further in supporting the wider steel industry with help on business rates and high energy costs, while putting UK steel at the heart of major infrastructure and ensuring projects like the Royal Navy’s new Fleet Solid Ships are built in the UK using UK steel.”