Britain once led the world in industry. We invented the steam engine, built the railway, and pioneered the assembly line – British innovations that shaped the modern world and helped us win the Second World War.
But the Industrial Revolution wasn’t just about machines. It transformed lives, creating jobs that powered Britain’s rise. And it was the labour movement that turned those jobs into something better: securing dignity, fair pay, and pride in work.
Nowhere embodied this more than the Vale of Glamorgan. In 1913, Barry was the world’s largest coal-exporting port, fuelling Britain’s success. Then coal declined. In 1966, the Vale opened a Butlins – just as UK domestic tourism began its downturn. And now, after years of Tory neglect and economic mismanagement, good jobs are too scarce, and young people feel they have to leave to get ahead.
That needs to change. And I’m determined to deliver on this change.
The next industrial revolution won’t be built on coal, it’ll be built on code. The factory floor of the future is digital, and Britain has what it takes to lead. We’re already world-class in AI, fintech, and life sciences. With Labour’s strategic investment, we can turn these strengths into high-wage, high-skill jobs – jobs that Barry and Britain need.
But this isn’t just about economic growth. It’s about security.
Putin’s aggression and cyber threats from hostile states show that falling behind in technology is a risk we can’t afford. Our defence doesn’t just depend on our Armed Forces (the best in the world, by the way); it depends on technological strength. Just as cracking the Enigma code and developing radar secured victory in the Second World War, today’s security depends on our ability to lead in AI, cyber, and digital infrastructure.
That’s why today, I’m launching the ‘All Hands on Tech’ campaign: a plan to bring 1,000 new tech and innovation jobs to the Vale by 2030. That’s 500 full-time roles for mid-career workers and 500 trainee roles to help local young people break into the industry.
We already have the talent. We already have the ambition. And with Labour’s plan for clean energy, digital infrastructure, and skills investment, Barry can be at the heart of the UK’s tech economy.
Because innovation isn’t just about startup clusters in London. It’s about real jobs in real places; jobs that pay well, give people a future, and strengthen Britain’s place in the world.
Barry’s docks once symbolised Britain’s industrial might, bustling with ships riding the tide of global trade. I won’t rest until our harbour is bustling again – this time with well-paid, skilled jobs.
The coal industry might have moved on from Barry, but my ambition has not. Let’s bring 1,000 jobs home.
