Mark has tabled a Motion in Parliament strongly opposing the planned closure of the publisher Chambers Harrap which has been based in the city since its foundation in 1819.

The company is respoinsible for producing famous titles like the Chambers Dictionary which is a favourite of crossword enthusiasts.

It is now part of Hachette UK which has announced that the Edinburgh offices will be sold with profitable titles to be published in London and Paris in future.

The Motion urges Hachette UK to reconsider moving the titles or if it is not prepared to keep its operations in Edinburgh itself, to seek a buyer to allow the operations to continue in the city under another owner. To read it in full click here.

Mark said:

“This motion highlights the attempt to close a successful business which has been at the centre of Edinburgh life for nearly 200 years. it would be a tragedy if this long-established business was to end its operations in the city.

“One of the founders, William Chambers, was twice Lord Provost and paid for the restoration of St Giles cathedral, and that is an indication of the close links between the business and the city."

The picture on the left shows the National Museum of Scotland at one end of Chambers Street which is named after William Chambers. The closure of Chambers Harrap would spell the loss of a precious part of Edinburgh's and Scotland's heritage.

Twenty-seven jobs would be lost as a result of the closure of Chambers Harrap and many of the staff under threat have been with the company for over twenty years.

For more information contact Liam Rodger, Father of Chambers Harrap NUJ chapel on 07505015442 or at ljr283@tutor.open.ac.uk.

The National Union of Journalists has an online petition where people can register their opposition to the closure at
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/chambers-in-edinburgh/?e