More than 4,500 manufacturing jobs were lost in the United Kingdom during June and July, according to the GMB union.
The union said 72 skilled workers had lost their jobs every day during the period, indicating a deepening crisis in the sector.
About 25 workers lost their jobs when Wenban Smith Joinery on the Garcia Trading Estate in Worthing closed at the end of July.
A further 35 jobs are expected to go when cider-maker Merrydown closes its factory in Heathfield later this year.
GMB general secretary Kevin Curran said the "industrial bloodshed" would continue without urgent action from business and the Government.
The union wants increased state aid and intervention to sustain growth and steps taken to tackle the skills shortage.
Wednesday September 01, 2004
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