The future of more than 600 jobs are still hanging in the balance at one of Sussex's oldest manufacturing plants.

The sale of the Parker Pen factory in Newhaven to American manufacturing giant Newell Rubbermaid was officially announced yesterday, more than five months after the deal was first agreed.

The plant, which employs 650 highly specialised workers, was sold by former owner Gillette along with all its other stationary interests.

Newhaven MP Norman Baker has requested talks with both Gillette and the new owners. He wants reassurances the Parker Pen operation will carry on in Newhaven without cuts or job losses.

He said: "Clearly any change of ownership can cause jitters as this invitably brings uncertainty.

"The entire stationary arm of Gillette has been sold as a worldwide operation, of which Parker Pen is only one aspect.

"It is conceivable the new owners want to do something with it. The options for Newell Rubbermaid are either to reduce operations in Newhaven and rationalise them, or they might want to increase operations."

The Liberal Democrat MP sounded a cautious note of optimism about the takeover, saying new jobs could even be created in the town if Newell Rubbermaid decided to expand the business.

"From the conversations I have had I have reason to believe this could, in fact, be good news for both the workers at Parker Pen and the town in general.

"I think they see Newhaven as a useful operation but I want to clarify their thinking for the town and make sure the workforce is protected."

An initial statement from Newell Rubbermaid, which has also acquired Paper Mate, Waterman and Liquid Paper from Gillette, gave no sign of any impending cuts.

The new owner praised Parker Pen's strong brand recognition and international presence and indicated it would like to build on its manufacturing strengths.

William Sovey, the company's vice chairman and chief executive officer, said: "This acquisition is a great strategic fit and we are excited about the opportunity to leverage these highly recognised brands."

Gillette's acting chief executive officer, Edward DeGraan said: "Newell Rubbermaid will ensure the full potential of these quality brands is realised.

"I thank all of our stationary product employees for their dedicated efforts through the years in support of this business."