GE job slash threat

Unite warned General Electric (GE) of cutting ‘too far, too fast’ and demanded guarantees on ‘no compulsory’ redundancies after the firm announced restructuring plans which put the future of 1,100 jobs in its UK power division at risk.

Describing the news, which will primarily impact on the firm’s Rugby and Stafford sites, as a major blow to the Midlands’ economy, Unite vowed to fight to keep as many jobs as possible.

“General Electric is in danger of cutting too far, too fast and leaving itself ill equipped to meet the challenges of the changing power generation market,” said Unite national officer Linda McCulloch.

“These proposals will be a shock for General Electric’s loyal workforce and deal a major blow to the Midlands’ economy which will be deprived of highly skilled well paid jobs because of this announcement.

“Over the coming days and weeks Unite will be supporting our members and scrutinising the company’s business case as we fight to save as many jobs as possible.

“Unite will also be seeking guarantees from General Electric that there will be no compulsory redundancies and that there will be redeployment opportunities for workers wishing to stay with the business.”