Local MP Katy Clark met with Diageo Executives this week (on Wednesday 17th July 2009) along with other members of the Scottish Affairs Committee and expressed her strong concerns at the social consequences for Ayrshire at plans to close the Kilmarnock and Hurlford plants. Diageo Executives have stated however they are prepared to listen to rival proposals and Scottish Enterprise, with input from the GMB and Unite Unions, are currently preparing an alternative plan which would allow the plant in Kilmarnock to remain open.
Speaking on the subject Ms. Clark said “There has to be appreciation that Ayrshire is already an area of high unemployment and the social consequences have to be taken into account. I am extremely disappointed that Diageo have produced proposals to close the packaging plant in Kilmarnock. The Johnny Walker is synonymous with Kilmarnock and I believe it is completely unacceptable for Diageo to close the plant causing devastation to many of those who would lose their jobs and put an end to over 180 years of history in the town. No regard seems to be being taken of the social consequences of closure. I fully support the ongoing campaign which is taking place in Kilmarnock and hope that Scottish Enterprise and the Trade Unions are able to come up with alternative plans which will save jobs and allow Johnny Walker to keep its unique identity and heritage.”
“I am also concerned that these proposals highlight the lack of protection given to workers in the United Kingdom and I believe that much tighter rules need to put in place to make it harder to make workers redundant. A significant increase is also needed to Statutory Redundancy Pay.”
The Scottish Affairs select committee is to launch an enquiry into the proposals.