The Transport and General Workers' Union has welcomed news that the EU is to investigate allegations that Pirelli has “exported” jobs from the UK to Italy.

The TGWU says EU allegations that the company had failed to tell the Italian government and the European Commission of job losses in the UK may now lead to a full inquiry into a £50m grant paid by the Italian government to the company.

Colin Lumber, T&G regional industrial organiser, says that the loss of over 300 jobs in Hampshire has been a real blow.

“It was a bitter blow to lose those jobs in Hampshire but if the company has sought to play some sort of game by claiming grants they were not entitled to, then they must be held to account,” says Mr. Lumber.

“All too often when companies restructure they pick on UK workers as we are cheaper, quicker and easier to sack. If the Italians and the EU now hold Pirelli to account as they should, we may see a change of mind forced on the company.”