Widows dismisses fears for 2000 jobs

Published on Monday 1 July 2002 01:00

SCOTTISH Widows today denied claims 2000 jobs were at risk at the Edinburgh-based financial giant.

Reports today suggested the jobs could go as the firm was considering moving some of its business overseas.

But a spokesman for Scottish Widows today rejected the claims, saying: “There are no such plans for outsourcing work overseas.”

Union officials claimed as many as 2000 workers at Scottish Widows could face the axe under a proposal being considered by parent firm Lloyds TSB to shift back-office and processing jobs to countries such as India, South Africa and China in a bid to cut costs.

The banking giant, which bought Scottish Widows for 7 billion in 1999, said although it had “no firm plans”, it was looking at a range of options to increase efficiency, which could include outsourcing abroad.

But Ian Partridge, general secretary of Lloyds TSB Group Union (LTU), warned that up to 8000 jobs at Lloyds TSB across the UK are under threat.

“We believe plans are well-advanced even though a final decision has not been made.

“One option being considered is India. The exporting of jobs and livelihoods from the UK to India, or anywhere else, is something the union will oppose vigorously.”

Scottish Widows employs about 3500 staff in Edinburgh – mainly in call centre and processing roles.

A union newsletter sent to members states: “LTU understands the bank is finalising plans to establish processing and contact centres abroad. We have been told the only outstanding issue is where the new sites are to be located. One option is India.”

A spokeswoman for Lloyds TSB could not say what functions the bank was considering outsourcing but confirmed such a move was being contemplated. “We are always looking at ways to increase efficiency – but we don’t have any firm plans to do it.”