Written question asked by Elfyn Llwyd (Plaid Cymru) on Tuesday, 9 May 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 July 2000. It was answered by Lord Murphy of Torfaen (Labour) on Monday, 10 July 2000 on behalf of the Wales Office.

Office of the Secretary of State for Wales

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, what initiatives he is pursuing to safeguard jobs in the motor components industry which may be under threat from the sale of Rover; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he is pursuing to safeguard jobs in the motor components industry which may be under threat from the sale of Rover; and if he will make a statement. [121727] Mr. Paul Murphy: I remain in close contact with all stakeholders to ensure Welsh interests are considered. The acquisition of Rover by the Phoenix consortium, which plans to maintain volume car production of existing models at Longbridge offers a welcome outcome for suppliers of the motor components industry. The Wales Task Force has prepared a study on the possible impact on the Welsh automotive industry and is also undertaking a long-term strategy to improve competitiveness of the industry over the next five years. This was considered by the Economic Development Committee of the National Assembly for Wales on 6 July, who gave their approval. The Welsh Task Force will now concentrate on implementing the recommendations made in the report, through the establishment of a Project Management Board.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 121727; 353 c409W;353 c407W
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Components Motor vehicles Manufacturing industries Wales Rover Group
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk