Welcome news that Grangemouth petrochemical plant is to remain open

The Royal Society of Chemistry welcomes this morning's announcement that the Grangemouth petrochemicals plant is not to be closed.

Chief executive Robert Parker said: "The closure of the plant would have been disastrous, on human and economic levels, not only for Scotland but for the UK.

"We will continue to make available careers and counselling guidance to our members in Scotland who may be affected by the changes agreed with the workforce."

Dr Parker added: "The chemicals industry at Grangemouth, and elsewhere around the country, has real importance for Britain's economic fight-back and future world competitiveness.

"The decision that the plant will remain open is good news for our members, for the people and companies in that region, for Scotland and for the UK as a whole."