UNIONS and politicians across Scotland condemned the multinational corporate owner of McVities today after further attempts to protect jobs at a historic Glasgow factory broke down. 

Representatives from the Scottish government, Glasgow City Council, as well as Unite and GMB, have shared their deep disappointment at the impending closure of the McVities factory at Tollcross in the city after a decision by owners Pladis. 

A campaign, including a joint action group, has been running in recent months in an attempt to protect the 472 jobs which remain at the site in the East End of the city. 

The biscuit factory first opened nearly 100 years ago, with a counter-proposal to save the site rejected by owners despite unions’ efforts. 

Calls have now been made for a legacy to be protected for the community. 

Unite industrial officer Pat McIlvogue said: “Despite rigorous attempts by Unite to ensure a future for the factory, McVities has finally put paid to any continuation of biscuit production at Tollcross. 

“Unite is calling for McVities to do the right thing before they switch off the lights at the Tollcross site.”

In a statement, Pladis said: “We understand this has been difficult for our colleagues at Tollcross and so it is with regret that we proceed with the proposal to close the site.

“We are consulting affected employees individually to discuss arrangements and our priority remains to support them during this time.”