WORKERS at Cammell Laird have voted against taking industrial action in protest at planned job cuts.

Union representatives had called a ballot last week to let workers decide if strike action should be taken following the announcement of 68 job losses.

The result was announced this week, with the union staff admitting they failed to gain a majority in favour of a walk out.

Albie McGuigan, GMB Regional officer, called their situation "unique".

He told the Globe: "It is an exciting time for Cammell Laird with work due to begin later this year on a £200m research vessel but on the other hand they are cutting job roles.

"The ballot result went against us and we are very disappointed."

Discussions had been on-going for a number of weeks as Union leaders from Unite and GMB battled to reduce the number of jobs being cut.

The initial number of losses was thought to be in the 90s.

Union representatives have tried to gain reassurance from the company that those losing their jobs will be re-employed as Cammell Laird employees once the new research tunnel is completed.

Albie McGuigan added: "It remains unseen whether or not this will happen as we have received no form of solid commitment from the company."

The new £200m ship first gained public attention after its name was left to a public vote.

Despite gaining a large number of votes, Boaty McBoatface failed to make the cut and it was decided the research ship would be named after world-renowned naturalist RRS Sir David Attenborough.

Labour MP for Birkenhead, Frank Field, said: "This will have been a hugely difficulty decision for Cammell Laird's workforce.

"There was simply no easy outcome.

"All options involve costs. But this vote plans for the future which we must determinedly build on the yard's success in winning its first major shipbuilding order – the NERC contract."