Marconi says it withdrew the deal in November

Staff at the firm's plant in Huyton, Merseyside, claim they were promised between �5,000 and �10,000 in the event of redundancy.

The Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) says that offer has now been withdrawn by management, putting some workers in financial trouble.

It said workers were particularly angry because chief executive Mike Parton had received a six-figure bonuses.

But Marconi hit back, saying it believed the union was referring to a deal which was taken off the table in November 2002.

The members in Huyton feel as if they have been duped Steve Kelly, Transport Union

TGWU shop steward Steve Kelly said: "We feel that if Marconi can renege on this deal in Huyton what future is there for the rest of the employees.

"What kind of deal are they going to get? We feel that Marconi will renege on their deals and our members will be misled."

He added that workers in Huyton felt "duped" and some had taken out mortgages or bought cars on the basis of what they thought was a financial commitment by Marconi.

He added: "We have all been through two years of trauma at Marconi.

As far as the company is concerned we have not reneged on any deals Marconi spokesman, Joe Kelly

"We are all committed to the turnaround of Marconi but the good will of the employees is dwindling. What price loyalty?"

But Joe Kelly, Marconi spokesman, said management were unsure which deal the union was referring to.

He said: "There was an agreement which was taken off the table in November of last year.

"If people have made commitments on the basis of them expecting to receive redundancy terms that's clearly very unfortunate.

"But, as far as the company is concerned, we have not reneged on any deals.

"We are still offering people, if they are made redundant, enhanced redundancy terms."