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Steel jobs could be saved as potential new buyer comes forward

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WORKERS at Scotland’s under-threat steel plants have been given hope with news of a potential buyer and new orders.

The Sunday Post can reveal a firm has expressed an interest in buying the Tata Steel works at Motherwell and Cambuslang.

The 270-strong workforce will also be buoyed by news that talks have taken place with Ferguson’s shipyard, owned by Scots billionaire Jim McColl, about supplying the steel for two CalMac ferries ordered by SNP ministers.

Industry sources say the willingness of the Scottish Government to help save the plants has attracted interest from a “heavy industries” firm described as having a presence in both the UK and overseas.

The revelation comes less than 24 hours after hundreds of people marched from the threatened Dalzell works in Motherwell to Ravenscraig, where a rally was held.

Those taking part called for more action to protect the steel industry and its jobs.

A task force aimed at saving the plants will be presented with a detailed report from civil servants spelling out the future opportunities for the plants.

It is understood this will include diversifying into supplying steel for military ships, transport contracts and wind turbines.

One idea on the table is the Scottish Government providing “soft loans” for refurbishing the plants with new equipment which would allow them to manufacture a greater variety of steel plate.

SNP ministers will be under pressure to back the move, given they have already committed up to £40 million in loans to save jobs at Prestwick Airport.

Yesterday thousands of people marched to the site of the former Ravenscraig steel plant in solidarity with the workers.

John Park, of steel union Community, said: “The commitment to consider steel from Lanarkshire in Ferguson’s contract is very welcome.

“Being in a position to win this work and potential naval contracts through the MoD isn’t just vital for the workforce, it’s vital for the Scottish economy.”

Last week it was reported Jim McColl was open to talks with Tata and the task force about using the plants to supply steel for build two new ferries at Ferguson’s Clyde shipyard.

The £97m deal, which secured 150 jobs, was finalised earlier this month between the Scottish Government and the owners of the yard in Port Glasgow.

Scottish Government business minister Fergus Ewing said: “We are in discussions with Ferguson’s about the possibility of sourcing the steel that will be used in those vessels from continuing steel operation in Scotland.

“The matter is being dealt with at the most senior level possible.

“We are looking to find solutions to challenges, including business rates, procurement, energy costs and environmental liabilities.

“We are looking at every way in which we can reduce the burden for any alternative private operator nothing is off the table.”

Last night Tata Steel declined to comment.