by Graham Tutthill

Hundreds more jobs could go at SeaFrance if a new plan, being put before a commercial court in Paris next week, gets the go-ahead.

Up to 750 jobs could be axed out of a total workforce of around 1,600. All the redundancies are expected in France.

The company's original rescue plan envisaged 482 redundancies, but was halted when SeaFrance was given French court protection.

Managing director Robin Wilkins said all the job losses would be in France, but he did not expect any industrial action. In the past French staff and work union members at Calais have staged strike action and have blockaded the port over redundancy and restructuring plans.

Mr Wilkins described the move as a major step forward in saving the company.

"We're still haemorrhaging cash," he said. "It's important we stabilise that position.

"I think there's a growing realisation amongst our trade union partners that the company is in great difficulties, It is time to accept this is the way forward. It's been extremely well thought out over the last few weeks.

"I believe that there is now a willingness on all sides that this plan be put in place and the future of the company be assured."