Job cuts at Gatwick could compromise security, union leaders have warned.

The airport's owner BAA announced in March it was axing 230 posts. With investment companies lining up to take over BAA, the Transport and General Workers' Union fears shop-floor workers and supervisors could be made to work for outside contractors.

Regional organiser Ian McCoulough said: "I don't think they're going to outsource the whole security department, there would be too much sensitivity over that, but there are other functions they could outsource.

"If they transfer roles to outside companies staff would not have the same level of protection as with BAA, which is a blue chip company and an excellent employer."

A BAA spokeswoman said the firm was working with the union to avoid compulsory redundancies. She said: "Safety and security are always our top priorities."

Thursday, April 27, 2006