MP's fact-finding mission to
February 2004

Local MP Eric Joyce gained first-hand experience of the challenges facing British contact centre companies when he visited Telecom Service Centres' premises at Central Park, Larbert.

As Parliamentary Private Secretary to Department of Trade and Industry Minister Mike O'Brien, the Falkirk West MP is heavily involved in Government discussions as how best to stem the flow of British contact centre jobs to overseas competitors.

With 400 of TSC's 1700-Scottish workforce based in Larbert, the MP is keen to do all he can to protect his constituents' jobs as well as learning as much as possible about the bigger UK-wide picture.

During his visit, Eric had talks with TSC chairman John Cole and Operations' Director, Charlie Sweeney and spent some time on the contact centre floor, listening to some of the incoming calls and chatting to the call handlers.

"We are delighted that Eric paid us a visit," said John Cole. "Overseas competitors are taking some business away from the UK contact centre industry but we are confident we have the skills and expertise to offer customers a service that cannot be found overseas."

"It is good to know that, through the DTI, the Government is taking a keen interest in this at the moment and anything they can do to help will be much appreciated."

Eric found his visit very informative. He said: "TSC is a very important local employer and I'm glad to see its business thriving. I'll be doing all I can to help ensure that the business continues to thrive and provide employment locally for my constituents."