PLANS for a major technology firm to move to Newport could be lost unless the Welsh Government stops “dragging its heels”, Plaid Cymru has claimed.

But the claims have been branded “blatant mischief-making”.

The Welsh Government has reportedly been in talks with IQE, which makes technology used in iPhone cameras, around moving into the former LG building in Duffryn.

But Plaid has claimed, as a result of “foot-dragging and haggling” by Welsh ministers, the company is considering moving the project to its site in North Carolina and has given a deadline of Friday, July 14, to make a decision.

The party's South Wales East AM Steffan Lewis said: "I sincerely hope that it is not too late to turn this around.

"IQE is a world leader in the technology of tomorrow, and these are the kind of jobs that the Welsh Government should be making sure that we secure in Wales."

But a Welsh Government spokeswoman dismissed the claims as “blatant mischief making”.

“IQE have been clear from the start of discussions that they were considering either a move to south Wales or an extension of their existing premises in North Carolina,” she said.

“The first minister met with the general manager of IQE in Pennsylvania back in March to help secure this deal for Newport and we are continuing to work closely and productively with the company.

“Welsh Government officials are meeting the company again this week to progress discussions.”

IQE did not respond to request for comment.