Hundreds of steelworkers were joined by Jeremy Corbyn as they marched on London today ahead of a crucial meeting on the future of Tata’s UK assets.
The demonstration passed through Westminster in a bid to keep pressure on the Government and Tata’s board, who are meeting in Mumbai today to discuss bids for their loss-making UK business.
Workers had earlier gathered in Whitehall with chants of “save our steel” before the procession passed Parliament.
Alongside finding a responsible buyer, workers are urging the Government to take tougher action against cheap Chinese steel and to help with high energy costs and business rates.
Jason Bartlett, who works at a Tata tin plate site at Trostre, South Wales, said: "The mood everywhere is one of uncertainty.
“We don't know what the future holds. We have seen difficult times in this industry and the impact of previous job losses has been devastating."
Mr Corbyn said: “We have to secure enough time to make sure the industry has a future. The industry is strong and the workers are incredibly skilled. It cannot be allowed to go to the wall."
Along with the Labour leader, Unite general secretary Len McCluskey, TUC leader Frances O'Grady and Roy Rickhuss of the Communityunion joined the protest.
Additional reporting by the Press Association
