Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has said he “stands ready” to support employees affected by the sudden closure of a local fish processing plant.
Nearly 70 members of staff at Prime Seafoods in Fraserburgh and Peterhead were told yesterday (Tues) that they were losing their jobs with immediate effect.
It was reported that the company was facing insurmountable financial difficulties. Industry leaders have speculated that high overheads – particularly business rates – were a major factor.
Scottish Conservative MP Mr Duguid said:
“This is devastating news for the workers affected, their families and the wider community.
“I stand ready to offer any support I can to those who have lost their jobs – and indeed to the management if there is any chance this can be turned around.
“I am aware of some of the speculation within the industry and I know, for example, that high business rates are a millstone round the neck of many local firms.
“I am keen to find out exactly what went wrong, so that we can identify and try to mitigate factors that may be putting other, similar businesses at risk.”