Listen
Hall's of Broxburn taskforce meets
05/07/2012
Scotland's Cabinet Secretaries for Finance and for Rural Affairs commented tonight following the first meeting of the taskforce established in response to Vion Food UK's decision to consult on the future of its plant at Broxburn.
The taskforce on Hall's of Broxburn comprises company representatives, Usdaw, West Lothian Council, the MP and MSP for the area, Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Development International, Skills Development Scotland, Job Centre Plus and Quality Meat Scotland.
Speaking after the meeting in Broxburn, Finance Secretary John Swinney said:
"The taskforce agreed that its key focus is maintaining continuity of business at Hall's of Broxburn and we are entirely committed to that exercise.
"We have drawn together all of the relevant government agencies, local agencies and political representatives to focus on ensuring we deliver a positive economic future for the workforce and community of Broxburn. The taskforce has had a positive start and will take forward a number of practical actions before re-convening on July 30."
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead added:
"Today has been a difficult day for both the West Lothian and the wider Scottish community – particularly the pig sector and agricultural industry. Hall's is a major food business in a major Scottish sector and the taskforce has been set up to ensure this can continue.
"Following my meeting with the industry today, I was pleased to be able to update the taskforce about the support from the pig sector for the Broxburn plant. For them, it will be business as usual and they remain committed to the plant. However, it is important that we understand the potential challenges facing the sector and have solutions in place should these be required."
Vion Food Group Ltd produces and processes beef, lamb, pork, bacon and chicken as well as a wide range of convenience products such as sausages and cooked meats.