Hutchison says early talks 'constructive'

Hutchison Ports Australia says it has held "constructive" talks with the dockers' union, as overseen by the Fair Work Commission.

The company and the Maritime Union of Australia entered the negotiations instead of taking their fight over the late night sacking of almost 100 workers to the Federal Court.

In a statement on Monday, Hutchison Ports acting chief executive Mark Jack said the first of three private meetings had been "useful and constructive" during a "very difficult time" for the company.

Comment has been sought from the union.