A minister has condemned P&O's decision to fire 800 staff with no notice as “wholly unacceptable”. Opening a statement on the matter, transport minister Robert Courts told the Commons: “These are hardworking, dedicated staff who have given years in service to P&O."
He added: "The way they have been treated today is wholly unacceptable and my thoughts are first and foremost with them. We will continue to look across Government and speak to colleagues and uphold the rights that are clear in law to protect workers."
The ferry operator, bought by Dubai-based logistics giant DP World in 2019, insisted the decision to cut jobs was “very difficult but necessary” as it was “not a viable business” in its current state. They will be replaced with agency workers.
