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Press Release

Unite says everything must be done to oppose shock sale of Lindsey refinery

22 April 2010

Unite the union has today (Thursday, 22 April) vowed to do all in its power to prevent the proposed sale by Total of the Lindsey oil refinery in north Lincolnshire from putting jobs and the site at risk.

The news has left the local community reeling as the plans only became apparent when Total's chief executive, Christophe de Margerie was interviewed yesterday by a French radio station.

The refinery provides employment for some 2,000 workers and for many thousands more in local businesses and services.

All these jobs are now at risk as Total moves to cut UK costs following a promise the petroleum company made that no jobs at their French sites would face closures or job losses until 2015.

Lindsey produces around 200,000 barrels of oil a day, making it the UK's third largest refinery, but Unite says that, in the present economic climate, a successful sale of the plant is highly unlikely, as the majority of UK refineries are currently up for sale.

For example, the Shell plant at Stanlow has been on the market for at least 18 months, but has yet to find a buyer.

Failure to find a buyer for Lindsey could lead instead to the site being mothballed with all the jobs being lost. But Unite also fears that even if a buyer is found, production will be reduced which could also mean job losses.

Bernard McAulay, Unite national officer representing the workers at the plant said: "This news is shocking and could have devastating consequences for the local community in north east Lincolnshire. Everything must be done to stop the plant being mothballed.

"Nearly 2,000 men and women could lose their jobs. Our utmost priority now is to meet with management to hear why, with oil prices at an all time high and Total continuing to be a hugely profitable company, they are looking to offload a major UK facility. Unite will be doing all in its power to save the jobs this industry provides for this region.

"This industry is a key employer in this country, but it is experiencing a period of significant and damaging instability, which is why we will be looking to Business Secretary, Lord Mandelson and his department to urgently lead on securing a future for the Lindsey plant."



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