GOSPORT MP Peter Viggers has demanded a meeting with armed forces minister Adam Ingram in a bid to save jobs in his constituency.

His call came after it was announced that 1,900 jobs were being lost at defence and maintenance services across the country, including 225 in his constituency.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Viggers said the work force at Fleetlands in Fareham Road were unlikely to accept this "harsh judgement" on their jobs, especially as they were not given the opportunity to challenge it.

Mr Ingram has agreed to the meeting but a date has not yet been set.

The Ministry of Defence announced earlier this week that a number of jobs were being axed, including about 225 at its helicopter repair and component business at the Defence Aviation Repair Agency at Fleetlands.

Avril Eley, regional industrial organiser for the Transport and General Workers' Union (T&G), said: "The announcement made to the House of Commons regarding DARA at Fleetlands is devastating news.

"It was stated they will help find alternative employment for those involved. I ask where?"

Fleetlands lost about 50 staff three months ago.