Uncertainty for 400 computer jobs

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A multi-national company is considering contracting out work at its Flintshire IT offices in a move which could affect 400 computer support staff.

Food and household product manufacturer Unilever is in discussion with US computer firm Hewlett Packard (HP) as part of its global plan to outsource its non-core activities.

It said no decision had yet been made about the future of the Ewloe offices.

Local AM Carl Sergeant pledged to do "everything" he could to protect jobs.

Mr Sergeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, added: "It's a very important time for the workforce in Ewloe.

"We have got three months of consultation where the company are looking to outsource their jobs.

"There's some very hi-tech, highly skilled jobs and very well paid ones, which I will be doing everything to protect..on Deeside."

Mr Sergeant said he had met with the company on Friday, and would be kept fully informed of any developments.

The Ewloe base employs about 400 people, providing computer support to Unilever employees in 35 countries.

Unilever, whose brands include Hellmann's, Persil and Knorr, employs about 179,000 people, including 8,000 in the UK.

Earlier this month the company announced it was to cut 20,000 jobs - 11% of its workforce - over the next four years.

The cuts will focus on European operations, but the firm said it was too early to give more details.

It said discussions were underway with HP to see if outsourcing the IT work at Ewloe would be "practical."

John Hamilton, regional officer for Amicus, said around 200 union members were potentially affected.

He said he had been in discussion with Unilever, adding: "There will be a consultation with the workforce before any final decisions are made.

"I'm hoping jobs will be kept at Ewloe and there will be a seamless transfer from Unilever to Hewlett Packard, with employees' terms and conditions protected under employment legislation."