Unanimous Senedd vote for talks on longer transition period for Tata Steel
MS's want to see a longer transition period to try to safeguard jobs.
All four political parties in the Senedd have voted in favour of a motion calling for further talks over the future of jobs at Tata Steel in Port Talbot.
2800 positions are set to go as part of plans to get rid of its two blast furnaces in favour of an electric arc furnace - switching to more green methods of steel production.
Ministers want a longer transition period in order to protect jobs.
The company has said change is necessary as the plant is no longer financially or environmentally viable.
Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: “Tonight’s vote sends a strong message from the entire Senedd. There is a viable future for blast furnace steel making in Wales and a better deal could and should be struck for an industry we all rely on.
“The steel industry is part of our nation’s story and stands today as a marker of Welsh excellence.
“The deal reached between the UK Government and Tata risks delivering an economic loss of historic proportions for Wales within an industry that underpins our manufacturing future and the green jobs it could unlock.
“Senedd members have today come together to send a clear message - there is another way that allows a highly skilled, dedicated workforce to deliver a greener future for Welsh steel.
“We will continue to engage with the business, trades unions and UK Ministers to support the best deal for steel, not the cheapest deal.”