Here's the latest Argus column by Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds:

THE export of iron from my home town of Blaenavon was an integral part of the industrial revolution, with iron from Blaenavon constructing factories and building rail networks on five continents.

And it was in Blaenavon that Percy Carlile Gilchrist and Sidney Gilchrist Thomas developed the method that allowed the mass conversion of iron into steel.

It was a remarkable scientific advancement, and I’m proud that it happened in Blaenavon: in fact, I often say that it was a great discovery in Torfaen that made the modern world possible!

We all know the story of the coal from our valleys being exported all over the world.

I’m sure many Argus readers have their own personal connections to those who dedicated their lives to this industry.

In my own family my great-grandfather Henry Edwards worked down Big Pit for 53 years, starting at the age of 12. That family tradition continued with my grandfather.

I’ve been thinking of all this in recent days with my appointment as shadow secretary of state for international trade.

With trade and exports being so important to our Valleys history, it seemed an appropriate job for me.

I am proud that my first visit was to Meritor in Cwmbran to talk about their work exporting brakes all over the world.

Our Valleys have led the way in the past, and that heritage should play a part in our future too by making the most of the opportunities that present themselves now.

That means properly supporting our exporters: from our steel sector to green technologies, medical diagnostics, compound semiconductors and so many areas where our firms can be at the forefront.

The Conservative Government talks a lot about trade deals, yet their delivery in key areas has been found wanting.

Damaging tariffs have been in place on our steel sector since 2018, and this – urgently - needs to change.

Those tariffs, together with the Government’s failure to deliver a trade deal with the US, have created a perfect storm for the UK steel sector.

The Conservative ministers need to be reminded of the jobs and communities that are being supported by this vital industry – as Christmas and the New Year approaches, we must make sure livelihoods are protected.

And in that same spirit of approaching the festive season, I would like to wish all Argus readers a Happy Christmas and send best wishes for 2022. 2021 has been another challenging year: I hope that this next year will bring happier and healthier times for us all.