MP to fight Sanyo factory closure

A Suffolk MP has pledged to fight the closure of Britain's "last link" with television manufacturing.

Waveney MP Bob Blizzard said Sanyo's plans to shut down its plant in Lowestoft, made "no sense".

The multi-national firm intends to cease production at the site by the end of next month with the loss of 60 jobs.

The closure was blamed on tough competition and orders for its range of large monitors drying up. It ceased television production in 2006.

The factory currently makes large monitors for sports venues, shopping centres and airports.

Planned meetings

In 2006, it produced the last television to roll off a UK production line.

"When they stopped making televisions at Lowestoft, it was the last time they were produced in the UK," said Mr Blizzard.

"I think it would be sad to lose that last link with the television manufacturing industry and I also think it makes no sense.

"I had a meeting yesterday with the local management and think there's a business case for keeping the base in Lowestoft."

Mr Blizzard said he had more discussions planned with Sanyo bosses in the hope of saving the factory.

A spokesman for Sanyo said: "There is a consultation process and the outcome is still pending.

"At the moment, the plan is to close the Lowestoft site at the end of next month with the loss of 60 jobs."

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Bob Blizzard MP
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