Unite condemns actions of Butler and Tanner Printers Ltd

26 April 2008

The workforce of Butler and Tanner Printers Ltd was informed by post this morning that the company has been closed and is going into receivership owing the workers thousands of pounds in unpaid wages and deducted pension contributions.

The news came at talks between the union Unite and the colour book printers, Butler and Tanner were ongoing at the conciliation service ACAS.

Negotiations have been underway on  changes to working practices and massive cost reductions.  Even yesterday the union and the management were still in discussions with ACAS with no notification that the company was about to be closed.

Workers have been told the company is closed, they are redundant with immediate effect and that an application for receivership will be made next week.

Members gathered at the company today following receipt of their notices to find the gates barred and bolted.

National officer Ann Field said:  "Unite will be demanding recompense in full from the perpetrators of this  despicable act sacrificing people's jobs and livelihoods.  Mike Dolan and former boss Andrew Hillman should be called to account for what they have done to the workers' jobs, their pensions and their community"

The chapel representatives ( shop stewards committee) is meeting this afternoon to discuss next steps.  A members' meeting will be held on Tuesday.

Employees: 287, union members (all of production staffs) 210; 150 year old leading colour book printer.