The decision by Honda that it will be closing their manufacturing plant in Swindon in 2021 comes as a bitter blow to the automotive industry across the UK.  This clearly has an impact on the supply chain across the country including Kasai, here in Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney.

Kasai has been established in Merthyr Tydfil since the early 1990s and currently employs over 200 people.  My thoughts are with them during this difficult period of huge uncertainty.

There are a number of views regarding the reason for the decision by Honda and no doubt that will become clearer in the coming days.  Whatever the reason behind the decision, it is how we can all support our local businesses through this period that is the priority now.  Support so that we can try to mitigate in whatever way we can against the decision by Honda.

I have already written to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy to urge him and the UK Government to ensure that whatever support they are intending to offer those employed in Swindon is extended to the wider supply chain.  I’m glad to hear that the Secretary of State has said that he will also be working closely with the Welsh Government.

I will be meeting with the Company later this week to offer whatever support I can.