Ed Miliband, the Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), today (25 November) visited British Glass member Ardagh Glass Packaging’s Doncaster plant to discuss the impacts of escalating energy prices on the glass industry.
The MP for Doncaster North spoke with representatives from both Ardagh and British Glass to discuss the ongoing issues and the lasting impact the sector is facing as a result of the prolonged energy price crisis.
British Glass also provided the minister with questions to be raised in parliament to address the lack of action from government in responding to the crisis.
The Rt Hon Mr Miliband said:
“We need serious leadership to solve the energy crisis facing families and firms, but instead of action, companies and workers in communities across the North and Midlands are being sold out.
“The Government’s failure to have a plan that secures our energy supply has left our country dangerously exposed.
“The silence from ministers on support for energy intensive firms speaks volumes about what little value the Conservatives place in the future of these proud industries.”
Technical Director at British Glass, Nick Kirk, said:
“We are very grateful to the Shadow Secretary for taking the time to visit one of our member’s factories and to discuss the very real impact that continued high energy prices are having on our sector.
“Glass manufacturers and other energy intensive industries have been dealing with the burden of extortionately high prices for far too long and with no action, support or intervention from government in sight, our industry continues to suffer and face the real possibility of impacting the food & drink and construction supply chains.
“As the representative body for the glass industry we will continue to support for our members on this matter and we hope that following today’s meeting, government will address our concerns and the pressing need for action to resolve the crisis.”
