The proposed closure of Ford's Bridgend plant inquiry

In June, Ford announced that it planned to close its factory in Bridgend, South Wales, in September 2020 with the loss of 1,700 jobs and more in the supply chain. President of Ford Europe, Stuart Rowley, cited sustainability concerns as one of the reasons behind the closure. Trade unions described the decision as a “hammer blow” to the local economy. The Welsh Affairs Committee will question Steven Armstrong, Chairman of Ford of Europe, on the decision to close the Bridgend plant. The Committee will question whether Brexit played a role in Ford’s decision-making process, what scope there is to change the closure plans and whether this closure is the first of many. In the second panel, the Committee will hear from Unions and Bridgend County Council who have both voiced serious concern about the closure. The Committee will ask the panel about what support is being offered to those who will lose their jobs and the expected wider impact on the economy. Finally, the Committee will question Ken Skates AM, Minister for Economy and Transport on the Welsh Government’s discussions with Ford prior to the announcement, the future support for those affected by the closure and Government incentives to encourage business to South Wales.