Reports that HP is cutting 850 jobs has led to criticism
of the government's neglect of manufacturing.
The technology manufacturer told staff today that production of
storage devices and servers will be relocated to the Czech
Republic, according to the union Unite.
HP will cut 850 of the 1,300 people at its Renfrewshire plant,
with only around 500 technical and administrative workers remaining
beyond 2010.
The computer giant recently announced it is
cutting its global workforce of 320,000 by 2%. It has also
imposed a 5% pay cut across the company.
Union Unite said the government needs to provide the
manufacturing sector with more support.
Scottish regional secretary John Quigley said: "When over £900
billion of public funds can be poured into bailing out the banks,
it is utterly unacceptable that help cannot be directed into a
sector that is fundamental to nurturing our economic revival."
HP refused to confirm or deny the redundancies. "HP does not
comment on rumour or speculation," said a spokesman.