130 jobs at risk at Cumbernauld manufacturing plant

Diesel engine company Cummins has announced plans to close its Cumbernauld factory - risking up to 100 jobs.

Public Finance Minister Kate Forbes said she is "dismayed and disappointed'' by the development, which has been on the cards since October.

Management started a consultation process, alongside the Scottish Government and trade unions, two months ago about the future of the factory - which refits diesel engines for use in the industrial and transport sectors.

The minister also said she had personally urged management at the firm to look for alternatives to closure.

Ms Forbes said: "I know that this news has come as a bitter blow to the Cummins workforce and their families - particularly so close to Christmas.

"Since the initial announcement, I have been pressing the Cummins management to consider alternative options to closure and requested an extension to the consultation period in order for these proposals to be further explored, which could potentially allow the site to remain open and jobs to be retained.

"I have expressed my dismay and disappointment to the Cummins management team at their decision to close the site instead.

"Our focus is now on supporting those workers affected by redundancy, through our Partnership Action for Continuing Employment initiative.''

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