Manufacturing/Research and Development

Answer: I recently met the chief executive of Peugeot, Mr. Folz, to discuss the issues and to stress my concern, which very much reflects that of local Members of Parliament. There was a positive response to the wish of the Government to work closely with the company and an understanding of our concerns and hopes for the future. These are obviously commercial decisions for the company, but we continue to maintain those contacts—for instance, my officials are having a meeting with the company in the next few days.

This is an answer to the Oral question asked on Thursday, 16 February 2006 by Jim Cunningham (Labour).

Question: I thank the Minister for that answer and I appreciate that there has been considerable investment in the west midlands, but does he understand that we need considerably more, particularly in manufacturing—I am sure that he knows of events with Rover—where there is serious concern about the intentions of Peugeot? What discussions has he had with that company on future investment models?

Secondary information

Type: Oral answer to question
Reference: 442 c1539
Session: 2005-06
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Innovation Manufacturing industries Research Science West Midlands Coventry
Link: View this Oral answer to question on www.publications.parliament.uk