Unite leader calls for greater support for automotive industry

In response to the government's announcement today on measures designed to counter US tariffs aimed at the UK automotive industry, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:

“In the wake of the US tariffs it is more important than ever that this government focuses on supporting UK manufacturing and defending jobs.

“While today's announcement by the government on ZEVs and hybrids is welcome, it is not enough to reverse the damage being done to a UK automotive sector in crisis, which has already lost one plant and includes several others at high risk. We urgently need to look at additional measures such as VAT exemptions and if we can't get a real jobs plan for the sector in time for 2030, we will need to go back to the 2035 deadline for all ICE vehicles.

“To generate growth and jobs for the future, UK manufacturing across the piece will also need reductions in industrial energy costs, protections for UK steel and a relaxation of self-imposed fiscal rules to allow more investment.”