Unite reaction to RBS job losses

Tuesday, 7 April 2009 12:00 AM

Rob MacGregor, Unite national officer, said: "The news that 4,500 RBS staff in the UK are to lose their jobs is truly devastating. Unite is appalled that thousands of people, who form the backbone of the RBS operations, are to be made redundant. These employees are totally blameless for the current position which RBS is in, yet they are paying for the mistakes at the top of the bank.

"The government must defend jobs and act urgently to put in place a clear programme of action to protect jobs in this country. This bank, which is majority owned by the taxpayer must not be allowed to shed jobs and leave people on the dole.

"The staff, from this continually successful and high performing division who have today been told that many of their jobs are at risk, are the life blood of the bank. These people have continued to ensure that RBS is able to deliver great customer service throughout the recent difficulties at the company.

"Unite welcomes the commitment by RBS to continued engagement and to exploring a range of options for those impacted to mitigate the consequences of this announcement. The union will argue for creative solutions to cope during the downturn."

- Ends -

For more information contact: Saba Mozakka, Unite press office on: 020 7420 8916 or 07768 693 953.

- Notes to Editors -
These job losses will be from the Manufacturing Division. This includes: Technology, Group Property, Operations (call centres) and Group Purchasing.

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