Airport 'review' sparks job fears

Manchester Airport is the third busiest in the UK

Hundreds of Manchester Airport jobs are under threat and key assets are to be sold off, according to a leaked report.

The Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU) said the document it has obtained proposes 30% cuts to security, as well as to the airport's fire service and car parks.

An airport spokesman denied any job losses are immediately in the offing - but confirmed a review of business strategy is taking place.

Dave McCall, North West regional secretary for the union, said the proposed asset sale includes baggage firm Ringway Handling, but that it was the security aspect he found most worrying.

'Bizarre move'

Mr McCall told BBC News Online: "It seems absurd that the shareholders are considering cutting 30% of the workforce, or cutting pay and conditions by 30%, in a bid to save costs.

"Either move will have an adverse effect on the morale of those working in security and baggage handling areas.

"After the events of 11 September in the United States it seems bizarre that anyone could even contemplate such cutbacks.

Many types of airport jobs are said to be threatened

"The major shareholders of the airport are the nine Greater Manchester local authorities, and cutbacks in pay or staff numbers will have an adverse affect on their own constituents."

Manchester is the UK's second largest airport owner after buying East Midlands and Bournemouth International operations for £241m in early 2001.

Manchester Airport, the UK's third busiest, also bought a controlling interest in Humberside Airport in 1999.

Earlier this year the airport also opened its second runway, the first full-length commercial strip unveiled in Britain in more than 20 years.

A spokesman for Manchester Airport said shareholders had begun a review of business strategy.

'Proper procedures'

He said: "The purpose of that review is to grow the business, provide the highest quality service and improve our position in a highly competitive industry.

"Like the entire aviation industry, following the tragic events in America, we are having to put contingencies in place but no decisions have been taken yet.

"We have proper procedures and systems in place for consulting and negotiating with staff if any proposals are taken forward.

"Our priority is, and will remain, to have the highest levels and quality of service - particularly in matters of security."