More cash for aerospace workers

Unions say many workers are still looking for new jobs

Workers and companies hit by the downturn in the aerospace industry are to get extra help from the government.

The Department of Trade and Industry and the East Midlands Development Agency have provided £500,000 as part of the recovery package for workers in the area.

Hundreds of jobs were lost at engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce's plants in Derby, Hucknall, in Nottinghamshire, and Anstey, in Warwickshire, last year.

Dozens of suppliers throughout the Midlands were affected and the money will help them to retrain workers as well as enable firms to broaden trade into other markets.

Improved technology

Rolls Royce was badly affected by the downturn in the aerospace industry, which was worsened by the 11 September attacks last year.

Employment and Industry Minister Alan Johnson, said: "The money is geared towards companies in the supply chain.

"They need help to diversify into other markets and perhaps improve their technology."

The minister said almost £1m had already been spent on helping workers affected by the closure, with about two-thirds finding other employment.

Unions have welcomed the move as a positive step but warned many workers still needed help to find new jobs.

A spokesman for Amicus said: "Every piece of help is welcome but we cannot forget the one-third of workers who have not got new jobs."