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DAVID HEATH MP CALLS FOR TASKFORCE IN RESPONSE TO BUTLER & TANNER CLOSURE

Local MP David Heath has held talks with union officials and with the local authority to consider further actions in response to the closure of Butler & Tanner in Frome. He has also visited the picket line at the factory gates to talk to sacked workers face to face.

Mr Heath has now called for the setting up of a taskforce using the resources of the district and county councils, jobcentre and agencies such as the citizens advice bureau to ensure former staff have access to good quality advice on financial issues and employment opportunities.

He has also indicated that he is far from happy about the circumstances of the closure.

Speaking after the meetings, Mr Heath said:

"There are still many questions - on final months pay, on pension and NI contributions, for example - which need responses. Having now seen the contract which workers were asked to sign, I fully understand why they were unable to do so.

“The more I look into the matter, the more I think the workforce were treated in a very shabby fashion."

Mr Heath also praised the way in which people and businesses in Frome have rallied behind the workers. "From the sound of it, Frome has really offered help, including shops, some of them national chains, giving food and refreshments. That speaks volumes for the sense of community we have in the town," he said.