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Lloyds Banking Group
30/06/2009
Finance Secretary John Swinney today expressed his disappointment at Lloyds Banking Group's announcement of further job losses in Scotland.
Mr Swinney said:
"Today's news of further job losses at Lloyds banking group is extremely disappointing. This will be an anxious time for the employees affected and the Scottish Government stands ready to do all it can to help.
"The First Minister has spoken to Lloyds today and the company have maintained their commitment that compulsory redundancies will be a last resort.
"Importantly, the company have also committed to working with the Finance Sector Jobs Task Force through this process. That will ensure the public and private sector will do all it can to retain the undoubted talent of the workforce in Scotland.
"There are also a number of new jobs being created for Scotland as part of today's announcement and Lloyds has made clear it will not offshore any further permanent existing operational roles, therefore keeping roles in the UK whenever possible.
"While we regret the overall reduction in jobs, the commitments made by Lloyds are some cause for reassurance - particularly in the long term.
"For those who do face losing their jobs, the work of the Task Force will be crucial and Ministers will be closely involved to ensure we are doing all we can to provide the support and assistance affected employees need at this unsettling time."