EXXONMobil say job losses at Fife Ethylene Plant will not "compromise the integrity" of their operations.

The plant operator is currently in consultation with staff members after it was announced that around 400 positions at ExxonMobil sites across the UK would be impacted by the proposals.

The job cuts are expected to be completed by the end of next year.

The Press asked ExxonMobil how many positions at Fife Ethylene Plant could be affected, but this could not be answered due to the ongoing consultation period.

A spokesperson for the company said: "We are not making any changes to our frontline process and maintenance teams who will continue to ensure safe operations every day.

"We are, however, proposing a revision to how we deliver some support roles.

"The proposed changes will not compromise the integrity of our operations. We remain committed to the highest health, safety and environmental standards.

"Our £140m investment project, including installation of a new noise-reducing elevated flare tip, remains unaffected and on schedule to begin its main phase in April 2021."

The proposed changes are part of ExxonMobil's global review as outlined by their second quarter earnings call as it responds to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the resulting impact on demand.

The company stated: "Proposed changes are subject to local information and consultation processes, and result from insight gained through reorganisations and work-process changes made over the past several years to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

"The impact of COVID-19 on the demand for ExxonMobil's products has increased the urgency of the ongoing efficiency work.

"It is anticipated that approximately 400 positions will be impacted in the UK by the end of 2021.

"The UK remains an important market for ExxonMobil, and we will continue to have a strong presence in the country including refining and fuels marketing, lubes, petrochemicals and sales of natural gas.

"We operate the UK's largest refinery, and continue to serve our customers daily through a network of around 1,200 Esso-branded service stations.

"However, significant actions are needed at this time to improve cost competitiveness and ensure the company manages through these unprecedented market conditions."