UK Tata Steel workers are going on strike for the first time in 40 years to stop job cuts

Tata Steel, a branch of Tata Group, plans to cut around 2800 workers from its UK facilities as it moves towards a more environmentally friendly steel production method. As a reaction, approximately 1,500 Tata Steel workers from Port Talbot and Llanwern in Wales will initiate a complete and indefinite strike in protest of the company's job cuts and blast furnace closures. Allegedly, the demonstration will commence on July 8. Unite the Union stated that it was the initial occurrence in four decades that British steelworkers had initiated a strike causing significant disruption to Tata Steel UK's operations. The members of the Union have already begun preparing for the upcoming protest.

Reports indicate that Unite the Union announced intentions for approximately 1,500 employees at Tata's Port Talbot and Llanvern offices to initiate an unlimited strike against the company's proposal to eliminate 2,800 positions and shut down its blast furnace. During an interview, Sharon Graham, the general secretary of the Union, mentioned that workers at Tata are not only seeking job security but are also advocating for the well-being of their communities and the future of the steel industry in Wales. The Union stated that the strike would go on until Tata ceased its harmful intentions.

The Union General Secretary stated that Unite is fully supporting Tata's workers in their important fight to protect the Welsh steel industry and ensure it has a prosperous future.

The union stated that after the general election on July 4, the opposition Labour Party has encouraged the Mumbai-based steel company to stop its plans and engage in discussions with the newly elected government. He stated that if the Labour Party wins the election, they will also make emergency discussions with Tata a top priority. The Unite Union stated that the Labour Party promised GBP 3 billion for UK steel if they win the upcoming election. If the Labour Party wins the election, having emergency discussions with Tata Steel will be a top priority, as stated by Unite Union.

Tata Steel expressed disappointment with the decision and is urging the union to halt the industrial action. Tata Steel plans to implement the electric arc furnace at its Port Talbot steel plant in Wales. The anticipation is to generate employment opportunities and cut down on carbon emissions.