LOSS OF PRINGLE MANUFACTURING IS A HUGE BLOW TO HAWICK - MOORE

3.44.42pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 1st Jul 2008

Local MP Michael Moore has said that the loss of the Pringle manufacturing capacity in Hawick is a huge blow to the town and a sorry end to what was once a huge manufacturing presence in the town.

Mr Moore is seeking an urgent meeting with senior representatives of the company and is in discussions with representatives of the GMB about the decision.

He has also impressed upon Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Borders Council the need to have an immediate task force operating in the town as a matter of urgency.

Mr Moore said:

"This is a devastating blow to the town and is the worst possible news for the people affected in the build-up to the summer holidays. It is vital that they and their families get immediate support, and that the local agencies address the broader implications of what is happening in the textiles industry.

"Pringle has been synonymous with Hawick for generations and it is a tragedy that the manufacturing capacity should reach this sorry end. Every effort must now be made to support everyone affected and to understand any implications for other businesses in the town. In addition, if there is to be any outsourcing of work, it must be a priority to ensure that this comes to Hawick.

"I am holding a surgery in the town this Saturday, 5 July, between 10.30am and 11.30am at the CAB offices in Towerdykeside, and I will have the opportunity then to meet with anybody who has been affected by this announcement."