Michael Sheen: Government must 'do all they can' to support steelworkers

Welsh actor Michael Sheen has called on the Government to "do all they can" to support steelworkers in light of the news that thousands of jobs could be at risk.

Growing up in the Port Talbot area, the theatre and film producer has often been vocal about the threats facing the steel industry.

On Wednesday he reacted to the news that Tata Steel plans to sell its UK assets, potentially putting thousands of British jobs at risk.

Sheen said on Twitter: "Welsh and UK government must do all they can now to show support for steelworkers in Port Talbot and across the UK.

"Steel industry hit hard by '08 bank crisis. Hope as much support for steel industry and workers now they face their time of greatest need.

"Steel industry at foundation of our national identity for generations. Given so much to our country, now time to honour that contribution."

Writing in the Guardian, Sheen said that places like his home town depend on the steel industry, "which has helped build the foundations of Britain's national identity for generations".

He added: "The workforce in Port Talbot is absolutely world class and they, their families and the community as a whole are having to live with huge insecurity.

"The Port Talbot community, like so many others in Wales and all over the UK, is having to cope with so much already, and with further government 'austerity' cuts in the pipeline, the future of the steelworks hangs over it heavy and threatening indeed."

He said he hopes that Tata Steel "takes on board its role as a responsible seller".