Sunday 27th February 2011

As the news of the huge job losses in Chesterfield, caused by the collapse of local firm Auto Windscreens, continues to sink in, Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins has today issued a statement about the last few weeks.

He had been heavily involved in trying to save the company, raising the issue In the House Of Commons and speaking with worried staff and Administrators on a daily basis. He has described the news as "A devastating blow to Chesterfield and to the staff who lost their jobs."

He is hopeful though that the name of Auto Windscreens will continue to feature in the town as a new firm, Trifords Ltd has bought some parts of the business from the administrators.

Toby revealed that, trading as Auto Windscreens, the new firm will employ around 250 people, including about 100 in Chesterfield in call centres and head office functions.

Mr. Perkins is now demanding that more must be done to ensure that the new company can return to past glories, and that those laid off will be provided with the best possible support to recoup lost earnings and get into new employment.

Mr. Perkins said, "This news comes as a massive blow to the loyal employees and to Chesterfield. The Government's response to this situation has been disappointing to say the least, and I will be demanding that all those hard working employees are given the best possible re-training and employment opportunities.

"Staff have worked for two weeks without pay, and then had two weeks of waiting for news that never came. Many of them now have mortgages to pay and no salary to pay it with, it's awful.

"The response of the government agencies has not been adequate yet, and I will be contacting the Department of Work and Pensions to learn about their plans to support the workers into new employment.

"Obviously I wish the new company every success, and hope that Auto Windscreens is turned around and grows into a company we can all be proud of again."

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