Labour MEPs Linda McAvan and Richard Corbett have strongly condemned the UK government’s mishandling of the crisis facing the steel industry following the announcement of 900 job losses in Scunthorpe today.
Linda said:
The fate of the British steel industry must be a priority for David Cameron in light of the talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping later today. He must strongly back EU anti-dumping measures so that our steel industry can compete on a level playing field. There’s little point talking about a northern power house and then do nothing to support a key strategic sector like our steel industry.
Richard added:
The government must do everything it can to support local communities. But it has already ruled out seeking the available help from the EU Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF). The government could apply for up to £5 million, but so far is refusing to act. With talk of further job losses in the region, we need ministers to put a package of measures in place as a matter of urgency.
Notes to editors
The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) exists to support workers who face mass redundancy. The government can apply for funds of up to £5 million which could increase if there are further redundancies in the steel industry. The EGF has the option to fund up to 60% of vital schemes to help workers made redundant find alternative employment through training, education and business creation.
