Wedgwood Statement

Wedgwood Statement

The name ‘Wedgwood’ has been famously linked to Stoke-on-Trent since 1759. It’s had its ups and downs over the last 266 years.

The news that manufacturing will be paused at the Barlaston site in September and factory tours will be cancelled is incredibly worrying and further highlights the immediate need for greater support for British Ceramics.

The support cannot be in some distant future; or the promise of help tomorrow, but real help today.

Ministers know what we need, and I had already started speaking to the new Secretary of State for Business & Trade about the work I and other MPs have been doing alongside the GMB and Ceramics UK to support the industry.

The World of Wedgwood is also more than a factory. It tells the story of our heritage, our craftsmanship and our skill. It is a tourist destination that brings thousands of people to North Staffordshire every year.

I understand that the V&A’s Wedgwood Collection will still be open and available during this time as will the other visitor attractions on site.

My thoughts are with the workers who now face an uncertain future. I’ll do whatever I can to support constituents affected by today’s news and support the company through this difficult time.