A total of 141 staff at the company's plant in Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, are to be made redundant when one of factory's production lines ceases.

I am told the vast majority of redundancies will be voluntary and that need not endanger the sustainability of the rest of the plant Vale of Clwyd AM, Ann Jones

Vale of Clwyd AM Ann Jones said the production will be scaled back in March 2003.

The factory, which includes the assembly of washing machines, employs around 700 people.

The factory's owners, General Domestic Appliances, has pledged to invest in the site in 2003 to ensure the production of a new range of products.

Transport and General Workers Union spokesman, Mike O'Leary, said the union would see if it could minimise the effects of the decision.

"Voluntary redundancies will be sought and then the company will look at 'last-in, first-out'."

'Minimise effect'

A three-month consultation will now begin between unions, workers and managers.

The majority of jobs are going from the assembly part of the factory.

A spokeswoman for GDA said the job losses come after a decision to transfer the production of one model line to another.

"Discussions will commence immediately with trade union representatives and employees directly affected.

"GDA will attempt to minimise the effect of any compulsory redundancies by seeking volunteers.

'Certainly a blow'

"The company will also provide support to all potentially affected employees in finding suitable alternative employment."

Ann Jones said: "The news that production at Bodelwyddan is being scaled back from March 2003 is certainly a blow, but I am told the vast majority of redundancies will be voluntary and that need not endanger the sustainability of the rest of the plant.

"Unlike some other firms, GDA appear to be acting responsibly towards their workforce."