Local MSP Fiona Hyslop Disappointed by Vion Halls Offer Rejection
Fiona Hyslop, local MSP for Broxburn in the Linlithgow Constituency, has today expressed her disappointment at the swift rejection by Vion of the Scottish Government’s offer to purchase and lease back the Halls facility in her constituency.
The Scottish Government reported the offer to the Task Force which met yesterday (Thursday, 13th September). The Task Force is aimed at saving the jobs of the 1,700 workers at the closure threatened plant and Fiona Hyslop as the local MSP is a member of. The Task Force also includes Usdaw, West Lothian Council, Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Development International, Skills Development Scotland, Job Centre Plus, Quality Meat Scotland and local representatives.
Commenting after yesterday’s meeting, SNP MSP Fiona Hyslop said:
“I am extremely disappointed that Vion have chosen to reject out of hand the substantial and innovative offer which the Scottish Government made to ensure that jobs are saved.
“If another company now comes forward and makes clear that it is prepared to accept the Scottish Government’s offer, I believe that Vion must be prepared to step aside and let that happen. Scottish Government Agency SMAS (Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service) have already been on site and have identified millions of pounds worth of savings, the company must now ensure that the plant is attractive to prospective buyers.
“There is too much at stake for the local economy and the workforce deserves every support offered. The 1700 employees have long-standing experience and loyalty to the company. They must do right by their staff and cooperate with any tentative buyers.
“So many of the workers reside in my constituency and I will continue to work tirelessly to try and secure their future and the future of the plant. The priority for everyone involved in the task force is to ensure that jobs are saved so we will continue to work to find ways in which the affordability of the plant can be improved and jobs are protected.”
ENDS