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Biscuit giant Tunnock's have been praised for paying 90 per cent of their staff's wages after ceasing production of their world famous teacakes amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The company, who also produce caramel wafers, announced last week that they were temporarily closing their factory in Uddingston, Lanarkshire.

Bosses said closing their doors was to prioritise the health and wellbeing of their 600 staff and to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

It was unclear what would happen with staff wages but it has been announced that the firm will continue to pay the vast majority of money due over the crisis.

(Image: DAILY RECORD)

Trade union Unite Scotland praised Tunnock's for taking the decision and said the factory could not could not comply with government social distancing advice which tells people to keep at least two metres apart.

They added: "After working with Tunnock's and looking at their risk assessments we are sad to say that their small, family-run factory just can't comply with social distancing.

"But, rather than try to deny they have a problem like some multi-nationals we are dealing with, Tunnock's will stop production and give workers 90 per cent wages to help keep them safe and healthy.

"Sometimes a hard decision for your family is the right one for everyone else's.

"Let's raise a teacake and say well done to the Tunnock's family for keeping Scotland safer during this crisis."

The news was welcomed by social media users.

Marie Monaghan said: "So glad their doing right by staff. Those lovely bars can stay on my list of things to not avoid buying."

While Ali Cooper added: "Love what I hear about Tunnock's, always caring!"

The factory will remain closed until at least Easter but will only reopen when it is deemed safe to do so by the government.

Announcing the temporary shutdown, Fergus Loudon, director of Tunnock's, confirmed the news.

He said: "Taking into account the most recent government advice and guidance, the directors of Tunnock's Biscuits have decided that the health and safety of our workforce, always our priority, can now only be safeguarded by the temporary closure of our factory.

"We will cease all production and remain closed and review at Easter following government guidelines.

"Be assured we have considered every alternative but we firmly believe that closure is the only responsible course of action as things stand.

"As soon as it is safe to do so we will resume production.

"We ask for your understanding during what is a very difficult time for us all. Stay safe."

It is believed to be one of the few times that production of their globally famous products has had to stop.

The business, which last year revealed it had sold £60m worth of products for the first time, was set up in 1890 and has been based at the current site for more than 50 years.