FOUNTAINBRIDGE BREWERY, EDINBURGH

Early day motion 735, tabled 1 March 2004 by David Hamilton (Labour). Signed by 50 members.

That this House is concerned by the decision of Scottish and Newcastle plc to close the Fountainbridge brewery in Edinburgh, thus ending a brewing tradition that stretches back 255 years; notes the fact that this brewery is modern and efficient, thus enabling it to make a positive contribution to the finances of the company; recognises that the loyal workforce, often representing many generations who have worked for the company, will be confronted with compulsory redundancy; regrets the fact that the closure decision has been presented to the workforce and their trade unions as a fait accompli and thus denied them the opportunity of meaningful consultation with a view to saving the brewery from closure; recognises the arrangements with the small Caledonia brewery as being a fig leaf aimed at easing the concerns of Scottish consumers; and in consideration of these matters determines that the Board of Scottish and Newcastle plc should pay due regard to the views of workers and consumers by continuing its brewery activities at Fountainbridge, Edinburgh.

Signatures by party: Labour 42, Labour/Co-operative 4, Scottish National Party 2, Liberal Democrat 1, Plaid Cymru 1.