Byers in crisis talks on Rover's future
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.SENIOR CABINET ministers and anxious union leaders last night appealed to the new head of BMW not to abandon the 14,000 workers at Rover's Longbridge plant, Britain's biggest car factory.
Following the boardroom drama in which the conglomerate's chairman, Bernd Pischetsrieder, the greatest supporter of keeping Longbridge open, resigned, Stephen Byers, the Trade and Industry Secretary, spoke to his replacement, Professor Joachim Milberg, yesterday. As a result, there is now speculation that the German company will build a new car at the plant.
Mr Byers stressed the importance the Government attached to Rover and Longbridge, near Birmingham, backed by an offer of financial assistance. Up to 50,000 jobs would be affected if the giant factory shut.
A spokesman for Mr Byers said: "He was pleased to learn that BMW's review of investment plans for a medium-sized car is continuing and that it is looking closely at Longbridge as a possible location."
Union leaders are also pressing for an urgent meeting with the new chairman. Roger Lyons, general secretary of the Manufacturing, Science and Finance Union, said it was essential that the "sword of Damocles" be removed after damaging speculation about the future of Longbridge. Union leaders say that they are cautiously optimistic about Professor Milberg's appointment. They hope he will honour past BMW promises to invest in Rover.
In a letter to Professor Milberg, Bill Morris, general secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union, said: "The challenge now is to restore stability and confidence in the company and its products."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments