MPs call for Virgin Media to keep Liverpool office

MPs are urging Virgin Media to rethink plans to close its office in Liverpool's Albert Dock, leading to the loss of more than 400 jobs.

The firm announced in September that work handled by the centre would be transferred to its site in Swansea.

Four of the city's Labour MPs, led by Riverside MP Louise Ellman, have signed a Commons motion on the issue.

It is calling on the company to work with the council to find alternative, more cost effective premises.

The motion is also signed by Wavertree's Luciana Berger, Walton's Steve Rotheram and Garston's Maria Eagle.

Staff are staging a protest outside the Virgin offices on Friday.

Virgin Media provides cable television, telephone and broadband services, as well as mobile phones.

It said the 435 staff it employed directly in Liverpool could be redeployed to Swansea or at sister sites in Manchester or Knowsley.