The NUJ is concerned at the plans for the newspaper

Media group Archant, which runs the two Ipswich-based daily newspapers, plans to merge its sub-editing staff.

As a result six sub-editors are to lose their jobs. There are also two sports writing posts going and a design job.

The National Union of Journalists said Archant Suffolk did not consult staff. Archant said it was an internal matter.

A spokesman for the union said staff wholeheartedly deplored the company's decision to axe jobs, reduce pay, demote journalists, and change job descriptions without consulting staff.

He said: "We are asking Archant to rethink the policy and enter into immediate and meaningful negotiations with staff representatives.

"We further propose that all figures relating to the company's proposals be made accessible to employees so that we can draw up an intelligent response, and ask that the company suspends any decision on redundancies for a period of six months.

"After this, and if needed, any redundancies should be offered on a voluntary basis."

The NUJ is not recognised by Archant management.

Archant issued a short statement, saying the issue is an internal matter for Archant Suffolk and the management team is spending their time in consultation with affected staff.