Steelworkers call for support for march

Jun 24 2009 by Karen McLauchlan, Evening Gazette

MP backs both sides

REDCAR MP Vera Baird today backed both sides in the dispute around Redcar steelworks to quickly return to the negotiating table.

She said Business Minister Pat McFadden had now met with Corus.

She added: “He and I have had extensive conversations regarding the best way forward. I know he plans to ring Antonio Marcegaglia on his return to Italy to add the government’s appreciation and encouragement.”

The consortium of buyers, which pulled out of its deal with Corus, has been threatened with legal action by Corus.

Ms Baird today said she had been able to see some “softening of their position” and Marcegaglia had now accepted that “ the case can simply be set aside while negotiations follow”.

But a spokesman for the consortium today said the group’s position had not changed.“ If Corus were to agree not to pursue its additional litigation against consortium members for the duration of any talks then talks could take place. Corus has always refused to do this but we’re still hopeful that Mr McFadden will be able to bring them to the table.”