Telford MP Lucy Allan briefed on GKN takeover fight
Telford MP Lucy Allan was today being briefed by union representatives on Melrose PLC's proposed takeover over Shropshire-based engineering giant GKN.
Representatives from union Unite was holding an urgent briefing session for MPs in Westminster today.
Since learning of the proposed takeover, Ms Allan has vowed to fight to protect operations and jobs at GKN's Hadley Park, and last week asked Business Secretary Greg Clark for assurances that, in the event of a takeover, there would be no risk to the jobs or pensions of staff in Telford.
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Ms Allan has also spoken to Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey and says she intends to lobby her department for clearer commitments on pension guarantees.
Ms Allan said: "This is a difficult time for GKN workers and would like to assure them that I will be doing all I can to safeguard their jobs in Telford.
"GKN has a long and proud history, and has strong ties to our area – with about 340 staff currently working at its operations at Hadley Park.
"The company is a great pioneer of technology, innovation and research, and, as industry leaders, are contributing to the government's industrial strategy.
"It is therefore essential, if a takeover is effected, that there are assurances in place to protect pensions and for continued investment, in operations and jobs, here in Telford."
Ms Allan's intervention came as experts warned a takeover by US-based Melrose could adversely effect the GKN pension fund.
