A NORTH-EAST MP has called it "disgraceful" that employees at a major supermarket fighting contract changes have been put on 12 weeks’ notice while negotiations continue.

Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham has described Asda's strategy in the long-running dispute over changes to staff contracts as "lamentable".

The supermarket is facing a backlash over plans to change workers contracts, which will result in employees lose out on flexibility and holidays.

However, Asda say the new contract provides a real terms pay increase for 95 per cent for employees, and the proposal represents an investment from Asda of over £80m.

Mr Cunningham said: “It is lamentable that a once proud British institution like ASDA is adopting its parent company’s approach when it comes to employment practices.

“Issuing notices to staff fighting for decent terms and conditions is a disgrace, and can only be seen as an attempt to scare employees into accepting terms and conditions that might not acceptable to them.

“ASDA should do the right thing – cancel these notices and get back round the table with the GMB and ASDA staff.”

Last week, Asda announced proposals to close its Haughton Road store in Darlington.