Efforts to solve the steel industry crisis in Wales are in danger of losing momentum, according to a National Assembly for Wales committee.
The Economy, Infrastructure and Skills Committee has written to the Prime Minister, Theresa May MP, calling for swift action to secure a stable and sustainable future for steel production in Wales and the wider UK.
Thousands of jobs were put at risk when Tata Steel announced in April this year its intention to sell its UK operations.
Tata employs almost 7,000 workers around Wales, including more than 4,000 at its plant in Port Talbot.
In a meeting held on 19 October, the Committee heard from steel business owners, unions and the First Minister for Wales, Carwyn Jones AM.
Issues surrounding business rates, energy prices and the impact of Brexit were raised.
“When Tata announced it was looking to sell its steel operations earlier this year there was a groundswell of opinion that something must be done to safeguard jobs,” said Russell George AM, Chair of the Economy, Infrastructure and Skills Committee.
“A coordinated approach involving all sides, including the UK and Welsh governments was quickly set up to consider what support could be offered.
“The evidence we heard during our meeting suggests that that momentum is in danger of being lost, and that since the Brexit referendum the steel industry crisis has fallen down the agenda.
“But the crisis is still very real and there are thousands of people across Wales wondering and worrying about what the futures holds for them and their families.
“Steel is a strategically significant part of the UK’s manufacturing sector, which is why we have written to the Prime Minister calling for swift action to secure a stable and sustainable future for production in Wales and the wider UK.”