WE ARE deeply concerned that Seven Seas has launched a 90-day consultation with staff, which may result in the company moving its commercial operations to London and the outsourcing of production.
This move could see the loss of 249 jobs in the Humber region.
We welcome the ongoing dialogue with employees, unions and stakeholders but believe that the decision to go has already been taken.
Seven Seas is synonymous with Hull and the region's fishing heritage. Founded 77 years ago by Hull's trawler owners, it has long been a household name, employing generations of people from Hull and the surrounding area.
We are in unprecedented times and the Humber economy faces particularly challenging conditions. The company is blaming a failing economy for its need to outsource production.
However we believe that this move is based on other factors.
The Humber region has huge potential and, with the right support, the regional economy can once again thrive.
Seven Seas' withdrawal from the region would be the wrong decision at the wrong time. It will undermine confidence in the region and damage our economic recovery.
We would urge Seven Seas and its German owners Merck KGaA to stay in Hull and ask them to support Hull and the Humber, as the region has supported them over the years.
Rt Hon Alan Johnson MP, Karl Turner MP, Diana Johnson MP, Nic Dakin MP, Austin Mitchell MP, Rt Hon David Davis MP, Greg Knight MP, Andrew Percy MP, Graham Stuart MP.