Ms Sturgeon confirmed Scottish Government agencies are in discussions with DB Apparel, the owner of the Playtex facility in Devol, after they announced last week that posts are at risk as bosses consider a switch to France as part of a shake-up of the firm’s European operations.

Staff now face an anxious wait over their futures at the long-standing Port factory while a consultation takes place between the company and employees — but it is feared that the facility could close by the end of the year.

The issue was raised in Holyrood on Thursday by local MSP Stuart McMillan who said he is ‘deeply concerned’ about the situation – and asked the First Minister what support the government will provide.

Ms Sturgeon replied: “I am very concerned to learn of potential redundancies at the DB Apparel factory in Port Glasgow.

“I know this will be an incredibly anxious time for the company’s employees and their families and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“I would assure Stuart McMillan that the government and its agencies will do everything that we can to provide the support that is needed both to the company and to any employee that might be affected by a redundancy situation.” The First Minister said its business agency Scottish Enterprise the Partnership Action for Continuing Employment (PACE) group had already been in touch to offer assistance, and added that they will be ‘exploring all avenues of support’.

The consultation over the future of the operation will officially begin on Monday.

Mr McMillan added: “I’m deeply concerned about the future of Playtex in Port Glasgow and have made my concerns known to DB Apparel, the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland.

“Having now raised the matter directly with the First Minister, I feel it’s vital that every effort is made to secure a future for the factory in Port Glasgow and ultimately save the jobs which could be sadly lost.

“I’ve been made aware that support from the Scottish Government has been accepted by the company and this will hopefully assist the workforce through what must be a difficult time.

“Finally, I believe it’s vital the company come out and directly answer questions as to why its moving its operations abroad.

“The workforce and the local community are demanding, and deserve, proper answers.”