Mitsubishi Electric confirmed last week that around 440 employees are at risk of redundancy at their manufacturing plant in Livingston, citing a "widespread downturn in heat pump demand from its European markets". Around 1,600 workers are based at the Livingston site.
Leader of West Lothian Council Lawrence Fitzpatrick said:
"It was a blow to learn that, due to the downturn in demand from European markets, many people face redundancy following the announcement last week.
"Mitsubishi has been a very important local employer in Livingston for over 30 years - they are part of our economic heritage. We sought to meet with members of their Management team, including the President of the Mitsubishi Electric Livingston plant, to hear first-hand the reasons behind their decision and also learn more about their support being provided to the staff affected.
"Mitsubishi confirmed that the Livingston sites will remain an integral part of their global business in the future and will remain an important local employer. Their HQ in Livingston has added billions to the local economy over the decades and, despite recent news, Mitsubishi will continue to contribute significantly to the local economy in the years ahead."
Alice Mitchell, Economic Development Manager for West Lothian Council added: "West Lothian Council and our key economic partners will do all we can to support the staff impacted by the decision in the coming weeks and months."
