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03/02/2010
Mandelson 'Disappointed' In Kraft
Kraft Foods' failure to provide job assurances to Cadbury's UK staff has "disappointed" the Business Secretary.
Lord Mandelson said the US company would not commit itself to managing the chocolate brands in Britain.
He spoke after holding talks with Kraft Chief Executive Irene Rosenfeld.
The Business Secretary insisted he would hold further meetings with the firm, whose £11.5bn ($18.9bn) takeover bid was accepted by Cadbury shareholders yesterday.
Lord Mandelson said: "I'm glad now to be in personal touch but what I will be looking for are much harder, more specific commitments in the next three to six months.
"I was disappointed that she was unable to confirm that Cadbury's confectionery brands will continue to be managed and operated globally out of the UK.
"On the other hand she said that she expects Britain to be a net gainer in manufacturing output and employment so that was encouraging, but what we've got to do now is to remain in close touch."
Unite union members have lobbied the government to seek an agreement on job security.
Shadow Business Secretary Ken Clarke met with Ms Rosenfeld last night.
He said: "I have discussed with Mrs Rosenfeld and her team their hopes and expectations that Cadbury's will continue to flourish and prosper in the UK and worldwide now that it is in partnership with Kraft.
"I will be visiting [Cadbury at] Bournville shortly when I hope to discuss further the assurances which Mrs Rosenfeld has offered."
(PR/BMcC)
Lord Mandelson said the US company would not commit itself to managing the chocolate brands in Britain.
He spoke after holding talks with Kraft Chief Executive Irene Rosenfeld.
The Business Secretary insisted he would hold further meetings with the firm, whose £11.5bn ($18.9bn) takeover bid was accepted by Cadbury shareholders yesterday.
Lord Mandelson said: "I'm glad now to be in personal touch but what I will be looking for are much harder, more specific commitments in the next three to six months.
"I was disappointed that she was unable to confirm that Cadbury's confectionery brands will continue to be managed and operated globally out of the UK.
"On the other hand she said that she expects Britain to be a net gainer in manufacturing output and employment so that was encouraging, but what we've got to do now is to remain in close touch."
Unite union members have lobbied the government to seek an agreement on job security.
Shadow Business Secretary Ken Clarke met with Ms Rosenfeld last night.
He said: "I have discussed with Mrs Rosenfeld and her team their hopes and expectations that Cadbury's will continue to flourish and prosper in the UK and worldwide now that it is in partnership with Kraft.
"I will be visiting [Cadbury at] Bournville shortly when I hope to discuss further the assurances which Mrs Rosenfeld has offered."
(PR/BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
