In a recent exclusive piece for Wales Online, Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the ongoing issue of the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme, highlighting the injustice faced by working people. Starmer reflected on the rich history of Welsh industry, emphasizing the integral role Welsh communities played in powering the nation’s progress. He recounted his personal experiences, including his involvement in supporting the National Union of Mineworkers during the challenging times of the miners’ strike in the 1980s.
The Prime Minister expressed his pride in rectifying the injustice of the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme, which has deprived miners of their rightful earnings. As promised in their manifesto, the government allocated £1.5 billion to be transferred back to miners, providing an average weekly increase of £29 for over 13,000 miners in Wales. Starmer also acknowledged the efforts of the Welsh Labour Government in securing support from the UK Government to address coal tip safety in South Wales, symbolizing the power of collaboration between Labour governments.
Looking towards the future, Starmer outlined the government’s commitment to fostering good, well-paid jobs through a clean energy revolution. Initiatives such as Great British Energy and funding for hydrogen projects in Wales aim to boost the local economy, create new jobs, and ensure Wales becomes an energy superpower. The government’s budget allocation of £21 billion for Wales, along with additional investment through the Barnett formula, signifies a substantial commitment to Welsh schools, hospitals, and overall growth.
In line with their vision for the future, the government aims to strengthen industries through a modern industrial strategy, with a focus on empowering industrial communities for sustainable growth. Initiatives like the National Wealth Fund, investments in key sectors such as steel, and the establishment of an Investment Zone in Wrexham & Flintshire demonstrate a proactive approach to economic development and job creation in Wales. Additionally, the government is implementing significant reforms to enhance workers’ rights, increase the National Living Wage, and protect longstanding benefits like the triple lock.
Starmer’s impassioned address underscores the government’s dedication to honouring the contributions of mining communities, ensuring they receive the respect, opportunities, and prosperity they deserve. By fostering partnerships, investing in clean energy, and supporting key industries, the government aims to revitalise Wales as a hub of innovation and economic vitality. The collaborative efforts of the Welsh Labour Government and Westminster signify a new era of cooperation and progress for the people of Wales.