The sudden closure of car component maker QDF Castings in Derby has led union officials to call for an inquiry into the actions of the administrator.

The Trade and General Workers Union is applying to an employment tribunal for a hearing into whether administrator Moore Stephens acted properly in sacking 120 staff last month, in addition to the 47 made redundant in August, without the required 90-day notice.

The tribunal can rule that staff can claim compensation through the Department of Trade and Industry’s special redundancy fund. The TGWU won a similar case for ex-MG Rover workers.

QDF staff were merely handed a letter from Stephens which stated: “QDF Castings is no longer in a position to meet your wages, therefore your employment is terminated forthwith.”

The letter advised workers to submit claims for outstanding wages or redundancy packages at statutory minimum levels to the Department for Work and Pensions.

QDF, which cast engine components including camshafts, once employed more than 1,200 people in Derby.