The new Scottish Labour leader has welcomed Nicola Sturgeon’s intervention in the BiFab crisis after being accused of trying to take credit for the rescue deal.
Richard Leonard tweeted on Saturday that the safeguarding of 1,400 jobs at manufacturing yards in Fife and Lewis showed the “Labour movement at its very best.”
He had also claimed pressure from various directions had “forced” the Scottish Government to act.
I welcome the fact that the combined pressure of BiFab workers, their trade unions and the public have forced a deal from the Government.
As we await the details of the deal, we must ensure that it protects all the 1,400 jobs under threat now and in the future. pic.twitter.com/ZHvZQjo1L4
— Richard Leonard (@LabourRichard) November 18, 2017
Earlier that day an agreement was reached to lift of the threat of administration for the firm, which makes equipment for the oil and gas industry and the renewable energy sector.
The GMB Scotland union had acknowledged the part played by the Scottish Government in securing a deal.
Full credit to @NicolaSturgeon and the Scot Gov for battling for #BiFab. Future of the contract delivered. Now to build for the long-term. #battleforBiFab pic.twitter.com/UiStAMX0Jv
— GMB Scotland (@GMBScotOrg) November 18, 2017
Economy Secretary Keith Brown said the agreement will secure work until next April and that efforts are under way to identify other contracts and secure the long-term future of the company.
I’m currently in Methil standing alongside the BiFab workers. Their courage and determination this week led by their trade unions GMB and Unite, has secured an important victory. This is the Labour movement at its best. pic.twitter.com/MBU4apErAg
— Richard Leonard (@LabourRichard) November 18, 2017
Business minster Paul Wheelhouse was among those laying into Mr Leonard, tweeting: “Who knew, when Adam Smith coined concept of ‘invisible hand’ in economics, he was inspired by Richard Leonard’s (non)delivery of BiFab deal?”
Pressed on Good Morning Scotland on Monday over whether ministers deserve credit for saving BiFab jobs, Mr Leonard: “Absolutely. If they have put together a package which will protect these jobs then of course it’s something I would welcome.”
He added: “What (BiFab) demonstrates is the need not just simply for crisis, reactionary management when businesses are facing the tipping point, it’s about having a forward-looking, pro-active planned industrial policy and that’s something that the Scottish Government should be doing.”
You know that moment, that golden moment when it's your chance to set the tone, signal the change you've kept on talking about? Blew it. https://t.co/bl9q3jjUVF
— Jeane Freeman (@JeaneF1MSP) November 18, 2017
That comment is so far removed from the work that has gone on all week that you’ve made yourself look utterly foolish – and within your first few hours as leader. Way to set the tone for your time in charge. https://t.co/BXV3kqKsqk
— S-A Somerville (@S_A_Somerville) November 18, 2017
No grace, no charm & utterly deceitful given huge amount of effort put in by @PaulWheelhouse @KeithBrownSNP & @NicolaSturgeon as well as union. https://t.co/hWHTeYUtDR
— Roseanna Cunningham (@strathearnrose) November 18, 2017
