New cars guarantee call

Unite called on PSA Group to provide investment guarantees on new models for Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant today (January 8) as workers were informed the carmaker was seeking 250 additional redundancies on top of the 400 announced last October.

Describing the additional job losses as a blow to a world class workforce, which would be felt throughout the supply chain, Unite vowed that it would leave no stone unturned in securing the long term future of Ellesmere Port.

“This is an additional blow to a world class workforce that is one of the most efficient in the industry,” said Unite general secretary Len McCluskey. “PSA must provide investment guarantees on new models for Ellesmere Port as a matter of urgency.

“The government must play its part too and provide guarantees on frictionless trade after Brexit,” he added. “Its current red lines on the customs union and single market will do little to instil business confidence and unlock the investment needed.

“We ask that ministers give PSA and other manufacturers a clear signal that government will do all it needs to support this crucial sector through the Brexit process.

“Unite’s priority is to support our members and protect this plant. We will not tolerate compulsory redundancies and Unite will leave no stone unturned in securing the long term future of Ellesmere Port and the highly skilled workforce. It is one of the jewels in our manufacturing crown and will not be allowed to wither on the vine.”