Unite Outrage at Diageo’s Announcement to Reject Proposals to Save Scottish Jobs

LONDON - Diageo’s announcement today (Wednesday 9th September) to reject proposals by the Scottish Government that would safeguard jobs has outraged Unite, the UK’s biggest union.

Unite is also furious that Diageo has made the announcement before the conclusion of the 90-day consultation period.

An alternative plan, drawn up by the Taskforce, to keep Diageo jobs in Scotland was submitted for discussion between Diageo and the trade unions. The unions still argue that they have a strong argument to put to Diageo to fight the closure.

Commenting on the decision, Jennie Formby, Unite national officer said: “This is totally unacceptable. Diageo has put out an announcement to dismiss the government-backed business plan half way through the formal consultation period. This is an insult not just to its workforce but to those who are working tirelessly to save these jobs.

“We will not standby and let Diageo press ahead with its plans to throw 900 loyal workers on the scrapheap without a fight. This campaign is not over yet. We still have other issues to present to Diageo which would keep these jobs in Scotland.

“Unite will meet with the workforce very soon to consider the next steps.”

Unite will continue its fights to stop Diageo’s closure plans and 900 of Scotland’s workers being thrown on the scrapheap.

Source: Unite the Union

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