TORFAEN AM Lynne Neagle is calling on the first minister to try to save the 98 jobs lost at Alenia Marconi yesterday.

Cwmbran-based Alenia Marconi Systems, pictured right, announced yesterday it is to axe the jobs as part of a consolidation of its air and naval simulation and training activities to sites in Portsmouth and Donibristle, Scotland.

But Ms Neagle told the Argus: "These are skilled jobs that we can ill afford to lose in Torfaen.

"This is devastating news for the workers and I will be raising the matter with Rhodri Morgan urgently to see what action can be taken even at this late hour."

A spokeswoman for Alenia Marconi Systems, co-owned by BAE Systems and Italian firm Finmeccanica, said some staff could relocate. She said: " The company has three sites looking after the same business. We are looking to consolidate in to two.

"Cwmbran is used for air space management and hasn't secured sufficient orders in recent months to sustain the work.

"There will be opportunities for up to 25 people to transfer to Scotland. This is an offer we are giving to them and we are also looking at opportunities in BAE Systems, our parent company."

The Dundridge College air traffic simulation facility, employing 15 people, will remain at Cwmbran.

Welsh secretary Paul Murphy, MP for Torfaen, said: "This is bad news for the economy of Torfaen. I know that the government, its agencies and council will do all they can to attract alternative jobs to the area."

One worker, a 38-year-old software engineer who asked not to be named, told the Argus: "It's kind of been on the cards .

"Over a year ago, we were told the site here was underutilised and we hadn't got enough work.

"I've been working in Bristol on secondment, so I haven't really thought about what was happening.

"We haven't got any details yet, but they will be offering redundancy money." Councillor John Marshall, executive member for environment in Torfaen said: "The council will be redoubling its efforts to assist other companies to create more jobs and help those people to find new, well paid employment."