Lib Dems fight for jobs in Netherley.

6.35.53pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 24th Apr 2006

Local Lib Dem Councillors are calling for action over plans to close down local firm HPL Jars and Containers Ltd at the cost of 75 local jobs.

The company which is based on the Holt Industrial Estate has been sold and will close as a result in three months time. All staff have been placed on 13 weeks notice and production will be moved to other locations throughout the UK by the new owners.

Belle Vale Lib Dem councillors Tommy Marshall and Ian Phillips have met local and regional Union reps to discuss the situation along with Executive Member for Economic Development and Europe Cllr Flo Clucas and Mike Taylor of Business Liverpool.

Councillors and Business Liverpool now have a plan to use claw backed grants that total around £80,000 from HPL to help re-train and guide HPL employees in the search for new jobs.

Councillor Tommy Marshall said "HPL has been an important local employer. We are first going to work with the new owners to see what if anything can be done to keep the jobs here in Liverpool."

Cllr Ian Phillips added "If the worst happens we think we will have about £80,000 to spend on training and helping former HPL workers in their search for new jobs. We also expect new companies to open in the area soon."

Adds Lib Dem campaigner Peter Rainford: "It's important that we keep as many local job options as possible. I am working with my two colleagues to see what we can do to get the best deal possible for local people".