A distinguished historian has led criticisms of the “bizarre and unacceptable” decision by management of a world heritage site to lay off dozens of staff after failing to apply for coronavirus financial support.
Sir Tom Devine, the author of The Scottish Nation, said the New Lanark Trust appeared to have acted in a “cavalier” manner towards staff and tenants, and in a way completely at odds with the local community’s pioneer, Robert Owen, the founder of the co-operative movement.
The Scottish government said it was “very concerned” about the reported redundancies, as a publicly funded job retention scheme remains in place, enabling employers to furlough staff.
Staff at New Lanark Trust were asked to attend a Zoom meeting on Monday, where they were informed
