Vauxhall workers at the Ellesmere Port in Cheshire which makes the Astra are to learn of their future later today, which could affect 1,000 jobs.
The new parent company, Stellantis have been reviewing their options for plants in the UK including the Ellesmere Port, which could also affect many in the supply chain.
Talks have been ongoing for many weeks, and speculation is rife after the French parent company merged with Fiat Chrysler which made a superpower in January which has fueled the ban on new petrol and diesel cars coming in a few years.
Stellantis chief Carlos Tavares warned governments can “create situations which destroy the business model.”
He told a press conference, “If we are told that in 2030 internal combustion engines cannot be sold in the UK, which we respect as a decision from the country then we are not going to invest in internal combustion engines anymore because that makes no sense.”
Shadow business secretary Ed Miliband said, “The Ellesmere Port plant is a major employer and winding it down would have devastating consequences, with 1,000 highly skilled jobs lost from the local community.
“To support our automotive manufacturing industry and boost its competitiveness, Labour has called for ambitious investment in electric vehicle technology, including the electric battery supply chain, through a £30bn green economic recovery.
“This investment would mean manufacturers have the long-term confidence they need to build new electric models in the UK.
“The Government must not simply stand by, because doing so risks worsening the unemployment crisis and dealing a huge blow to Cheshire and the automotive industry.
“They must act with real urgency to support our manufacturing industry and the jobs they provide.”
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