Unite reaction to Lloyds decision to abandon local bank branches -
Cheltenham & Gloucester
9th June 2009
Unite, the UK’s largest trade union has attacked as
“disgraceful” the decision by Lloyds Banking Group to close all of
its Cheltenham & Gloucester (C&G) branches.
Unite is appalled that staff have been informed of this decision
in the media before they have been informed by their employer.
Lloyds Banking Group must take full responsibility for the
devastation caused to staff who have this morning woken up to news
that they could lose their jobs. Members who are affected by this
decision have a right to hear of it in the right way, with
sensitivity and sufficient detailed information to enable them to
face the difficult months ahead.
News that Lloyds is to abandon all C&G high street branches
will result in hundreds of job losses. This is on top of the 3,000
job losses the bank has already made since its formation in
January.
Derek Simpson, Unite joint general secretary, said: “News that
Lloyds is to close hundreds of Cheltenham & Gloucester bank
branches, resulting in hundreds of job cuts is nothing short of
disgraceful.
“This move by Lloyds will rip the heart out of hundreds of local
communities up and down the country, as customers will see their
valued community bank branch close. Hundreds of staff who have
worked hard for years to make the C&G brand a success will view
this news as a kick in the teeth. UK taxpayers have not poured
billions of pounds into this organisation just to see it sack
thousands of hard-working people.
“Front line staff in banks across the country are blameless for
the mistakes of management which have brought the important finance
industry to the point of collapse. Yet these workers now face an
uncertain future as Lloyds abandons C&G’s high street
branches.
“This is truly a dark day for the financial services sector in
this country.”
ENDS
For more information contact: Saba Mozakka, Unite press office
on: 020 7420 8916 or 07768 693 953.
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