Jobs to be cut at computer giant

The company is undergoing a restructuring process

About 140 jobs are to go at the computer firm Sun Microsystems in West Lothian, it has emerged.

The company has announced it is stopping manufacturing at its Linlithgow base from May next year to cut costs, moving production to the US.

Sun said other jobs at the plant would not be directly affected by the decision to stop manufacturing.

West Lothian Council said it was seeking urgent talks with the firm over the future of the plant.

Hugh Aitken, vice president of Sun's worldwide manufacturing, said the job losses accounted for 15-17% of the 800-strong Scottish workforce.

'Loyal workforce'

He said the company would transfer manufacturing from Linlithgow to a plant in the US state of Oregon.

"This is a difficult process for the Sun staff involved and our human resources department will work closely with them in the months to come to help them find alternatives opportunities," he said.

Martyn Day, West Lothian Council's executive councillor for development and transport, said it was "very disappointing" news for the area.

"It is a particular setback at this time of year," he said.

"We will be seeking urgent discussions to find out more details about today's announcement and the company's future plans for West Lothian.

"Sun has a highly skilled and loyal workforce and we will be working with our partners to try to assist employees find new jobs and offer financial advice."