Mass suicide threat at Chinese Xbox 360 plant

The issue of Chinese human rights has been thrust into the limelight again this morning with news that Chinese workers on an Xbox 360 manufacturing line have threatened their employer with mass suicide.

Kotaku reports that workers at the infamous Foxconn plant were denied a raise and told that they could choose between continuing to work with no pay increase or quitting and receiving compensation.

However, the workers who left then failed to receive any compensation. All 300 staff then took to the roof of the building and threatened to jump, suspending console production.

The group were eventually talked down.

"Microsoft takes working conditions in the factories that manufacture its products very seriously, and we are currently investigating this issue,” a Microsoft spokesperson stated.

We have a stringent Vendor Code of Conduct that spells out our expectations, and we monitor working conditions closely on an ongoing basis and address issues as they emerge. Microsoft is committed to the fair treatment and safety of workers employed by our vendors, and to ensuring conformance with Microsoft policy."

The Chinese Foxconn plant has sadly become known for the high rate of suicide amongst its workers and has even installed suicide nets” at its plant to catch those who attempt to jump to their death.