AT LEAST 500 jobs are to be axed at the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE), in Aldermaston.

The firm announced this week that in order to enhance their production and capital investment, around 500 roles will be cut from across the Aldermaston and Burghfield sites.

An AWE spokesman said the firm are doing their upmost to support their employees.

He said: "While the company is committed to avoiding compulsory redundancies where possible, a reduction of roles in some areas and an increase in others is required to ensure long-term efficiencies while meeting overall programme requirements.

"As a result, the organisation is proposing to reduce the number of roles in some support functions and activities of the business where this is appropriate, with a reduction of around 500 roles across the organisation."

Newbury MP, Richard Benyon is concerned with the organisation's reduction of roles within the business.

He said: “I am of course concerned at the news of 500 job losses at the Atomic Weapons Establishment. My first concern is for any of the employees who may be offered redundancy. I want to ensure that the AWE works with agencies such as Jobcentre Plus to provide the best opportunities for retraining and employment in the area. I am also determined to ensure that there are no compromises on safety or security at both sites."

He added: “The sites at Aldermaston and Burghfield have benefitted from huge investment in recent years; the AWE remains a valued local employer and have a considerable supply chain across the local economy. Skills taught in the AWE school for apprentices and in the fields of science and engineering are transferable across the economy. The benefits of the AWE are seen across the UK”.

Prospect, the main trade union representing AWE staff, said it would find out about the jobs affected and will meet with AWE bosses later today.