28 May 2009
Commenting on the announcement that Hewlett Packard is to close its manufacturing operations in Scotland, the Secretary of State for Scotland Jim Murphy said:
"Today's news that up to 850 jobs will be lost at Hewlett-Packard in Erskine is a bitter blow to the local workforce and families. It's important the company now works with the government to help those who face losing their livelihoods to find new jobs.
"The UK Government will do all we can through Job Centre Plus in Scotland to prevent people falling into long-term unemployment. It is a disappointing decision from the company to relocate its manufacturing abroad but if we work together we can help that skilled and loyal workforce back into work."