Mandelson warns on protectionism

Lord Mandelson says Britain cannot retreat from foreign competition

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson has said protectionism would be a "huge mistake" ahead of talks to end strikes over employing foreign workers.

Hundreds of employees across the UK have walked out in support of striking workers in Lincolnshire, who are angry at the use of foreign labour.

Lord Mandelson said closing local industries from foreign competition would turn recession into depression.

The Acas mediation service was talking to unions and employers on Saturday.

Protectionism would be a sure-fire way of turning recession into depression Lord Mandelson

"Sympathy strikes" broke out across the country after workers walked out at the Lindsey Oil Refinery when owner Total gave a