Burnham Vows to Protect JLR and UK Automotive Sector

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has described Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and the West Midlands automotive sector as the 'jewel in the crown' of the UK economy. Speaking to BBC Politics West Midlands, Burnham emphasized that mass car production still has a future in the UK.

Burnham acknowledged pressures in the global car market but stated that the government is working with the EU to ensure new rules do not disadvantage British manufacturers. He said, 'We're so proud of JLR and indeed the whole automotive sector across the West Midlands.'

JLR suppliers have written an open letter expressing concerns about the industry's future, citing a plan to cut 4,000 jobs as the 'first visible crack' in the supply chain supporting approximately 183,000 manufacturing jobs. Burnham confirmed that he would consider redirecting skills and factories into aerospace and defence.

The government has proposed measures such as grants, lower energy costs, and investment in electric vehicles to support the sector.