THE Scottish Government have been urged to launch a ministerial task force to save under-threat jobs at M&Co in Largs.

The clothing chain, which has branches across Ayrshire, has appointed administrators for the second time in just over two years.

Although the stores are still trading and hopes remain that the company can find a buyer, Scottish Labour MSP Katy Clark says more needs to be done to safeguard people's incomes.

In a letter to business minister Ivan McKee, Ms Clark warned there was a risk of mass redundancies during a cost of living crisis - without intervention.

She wrote: “Whilst no redundancies have been announced at this stage, the Scottish Government must commit to doing all it can to ensure workers’ livelihoods are protected.

“This comes at a time when workers here are struggling with the cost of living crisis.

“I would therefore urge you to engage with the business and the relevant trade unions with a view to setting up a ministerial tax force in order to protect these jobs at this difficult time.”

The owners of the Largs store say they are hoping for a positive outcome, and remain hopeful that the shop can be saved.

The Labour MSP believes the retail industry has been hit hard during the pandemic - and says any further closures could be catastrophic for the high street.

She explained: “There is already a dearth of well-paid jobs and opportunities across the North Coast.

“Years of underinvestment and neglect has been exacerbated during the pandemic, with industries like retail taking a battering, and yet more closures will further scar our depleted high streets.

“That is why the Scottish Government must seriously engage with the UK Government, the trade unions and the business itself, and set up a task force with the purpose of protecting these jobs.

“Protecting the livelihood of workers should be at the top of ministers’ agenda as the cost of living crisis intensifies this winter.

“If these jobs cannot be saved, there needs to be funding and support put in place for those workers affected.”

Staff at the Largs store have received an outpouring of support following the news, with local councillors says its loss would leave a 'gaping hole' on the town’s high street.

A sharp rise in costs coupled with a decline in footfall, increased pressure on cash flows and mounting trading losses have all been blamed for the firm entering administration.