[W]estmorland and Lonsdale Conservative Parliamentary Candidate James Airey attended an emergency meeting with GlaxoSmithKline in Ulverston this morning. He committed to work with others across political divides to find a bright future for the site and for the communities across South Lakeland and Furness.
James Airey emphasised the need to see continued commitment from GSK and from Government into infrastructure that will help support the search for a bright future following yesterday’s announcement by the pharmaceutical giant regarding the Ulverston manufacturing site.
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) issued a statement yesterday that it intends to “undertake a strategic review of its cephalosporins antibiotics business, with an option to sell the business including the associated manufacturing facilities. These medicines are produced at GSK sites in Ulverston, Cumbria, Verona in Italy and part of its Barnard Castle site.”
James Airey, who is also Leader of the Conservatives in Cumbria and Councillor for Ulverston West, said: “GSK have been an important part of the economy of South Lakeland since 1948. Yesterday’s news could be devastating for residents and businesses.”
“What is needed now It is vital that a buyer is found is found for the drugs manufacturing site. It is vital that Government investment into the A590 and the rail network goes ahead. I believe strongly that the situation requires politics to be put aside and to work with a consortium, supported strongly by the Local Enterprise Partnership,”
“I am already in contact with the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark, and will be happy to provide a voice through to the heart of Government.
“I am grateful that John Woodcock has brought this meeting together so quickly and committed to forming a cross-party, cross-agency Task Force to provide any assistance to find a new buyer who can invest in the site and take advantage of this strategic site.”
“I am confident that if we work together, we can not only provide long-term security to workers and local community, who have been shocked by this announcement, but to build a bright new future for Ulverston and local people.”
