Labour says joint plan must save Mcvitie’s

LABOUR has urged UK and Scottish ministers to take rapid action to protect up to 470 jobs threatened by the closure of the Mcvitie’s biscuit factory in Glasgow.

Pladis, the company that owns Mcvitie’s, last week announced plans to stop production at the Tollcross site in the second half of 2022.

Labour MSP Monica Lennon wrote to UK Business Secretary and SNP Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop urging co-ordinated action, including a joint task force with trade unions, local politicians and other agencies to save jobs.

She said: “Now is the time for both the UK and Scottish Government to work together to protect these vital jobs at a historic Scottish brand.”

SNP Business Minister Jamie Hepburn said: “The consultation that Pladis proposes is a bitter blow.

“I have spoken with the company, with trade unions and with the leader of Glasgow City Council Susan Aitken.

“Councillor Aitken and I immediately identified the need to bring all players together.

“The unions support this approach and I have asked the company to be involved in a group to respond to the challenges the closure throws up.

“We will pursue every opportunity to secure the future of the site, but it requires willingness from Pladis to be engaged.”