Mitsubishi job losses

Lawrence Fitzpatrick said  "This is a huge blow to the 443 workers facing redundancy, many of whom will be West Lothian residents.

"Our thoughts are with the staff affected and their families at this difficult time.

"Mitsubishi has been a very important local employer in Livingston for close to 30 years - they have been a mainstay in Livingston and are part of our heritage. Thousands of West Lothian residents have worked there over the years. Their HQ in Livingston has added billions to the local economy over the decades so this is certainly a blow and clearly not a decision that they will have taken lightly.

"Despite this news, it is our hope that Mitsubishi will continue to contribute significantly to the local economy in the years ahead. Despite this recent news, it is heartening to hear that the company remain committed to their factory in Livingston.

"We are meeting with senior management from Mitsubishi early next week to discuss what advice and support we, and our partners, can offer. West Lothian Council and our key economic partners will do all we can to support the staff impacted by the decision in the coming weeks and months."