MP's Concern at Furniss closure

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 20th Jul 2006

Furniss Cornish Clotted Cream Shortbread

Local MP Julia Goldsworthy has expressed her sadness at the news that Furniss Foods is closing its doors with the loss of up to 100 jobs.

The Pool based maker of traditional Cornish snacks and biscuits stopped production on Thursday and is looking to sell its assets. The Furniss name may be sold to another manufacturer, which could take the production of favourites like Cornish Fairings out of Cornwall.

Commenting, Julia Goldsworthy said:

"This is very sad news for the staff and their families. I will do everything in my power to support them in finding new jobs. I am calling on the County Council's Economic Development Department and the Regional Development Agency to give all the support necessary for every employee to find alternative employment.

"Furniss Foods have been a household name throughout my lifetime and are a part of our local heritage. Coming only days after the job losses at Imerys, this news is another reminder that the growth of our local economy must not be taken for granted.

"There have been many good news stories for Cornwall in recent months, but the government must not neglect investment in our infrastructure if we are to continue creating new jobs at the same time as keeping old employers in the County."