TRADE minister Margaret Hodge has expressed concern over the loss of jobs at MBDA.

At question time in the Commons, Ms Hodge offered to meet Chorley Labour MP Lindsay Hoyle to discuss the job cuts after he raised the issue with her.

Mr Hoyle said: "Those specialist skills in missile technology will not be able to be replicated as and when we need a new missile in the future.

"Why is it that these companies such as MBDA come round MPs demanding support and talking about investment and supporting British workers, yet today we see the sad announcement of 170 people losing their jobs?

"It's not good enough. What can the Government do?"

Ms Hodge said: "I share the concern that you have expressed on behalf of your constituents and those who will be working there. I'm happy to meet you to discuss the particulars of the situation.

"What we need to do is to try and make sure we have the conditions that encourage investment for the long term, which will bring jobs to the UK and add wealth to the economy."