POOLE’S Remploy factory is one of 54 at risk of closure if the government implements the Sayce Report, says the GMB.

The union claims that if the report, which looks at existing provisions to help disabled people back into work, is accepted there are no prospects the factories could survive without public support.

The GMB was responding to a statement by the minister for disabilities, Maria Miller, that she was attracted to the recommendations in the report.

Phil Davies, GMB national secretary for Remploy said: “If the minister accepts the Sayce Report there are no prospects that the 54 Remploy factories can survive without public support.

“If she goes ahead on the basis of Sayce, the 54 factories will close and 2,500 disabled workers will lose their jobs and go on the dole.”

Maria Miller, Minister for Disabled People said: “We’ve been clear that the amount of money going into employment services for disabled people is being protected throughout this spending review period. The Sayce Review put forward a number of recommendations about how this money could be better used, to support thousands more disabled people, giving them maximum choice and control over the services they receive.

“If implemented in full, the Sayce recommendations would have a significant impact on how support is delivered and so before taking decisions in these areas, we are seeking views through a public consultation and I would encourage everyone to get involved.”