Jobs blow at communications firm

The company employs 150 people in Devon

Up to 100 jobs are to go at a telecommunications factory in Devon.

US-owned Quasar Microwave Technology on the Heathfield industrial estate at Bovey Tracey, near Newton Abbot, employs 150 people.

Management at the firm, which will close within a year, is blaming a downturn in the communications industry.

Fifty engineers and designers will be kept on.

In the case of individual needs, we will offer them counselling services that are necessary

Ralph Faison

Executives say their skill levels are high and they do not want to lose them.

The firm is one of the world's leading microwave technology firms.

It is moving most of its UK operation from Devon to Scotland.

It sells components for mobile phone aerials and base equipment for mobile phone networks.

Speaking from Chicago, the president and chief operating officer for Quasar's parent company, the Andrew Corporation, said provisions would be made for redundant staff.

Ralph Faison said: "In the case of individual needs, we will offer them counselling services that are necessary to help them get through this time and this change."