Nissan ‘in talks with UK Government’ over aid

CAR maker Nissan is said to be in advanced talks with the Government over financial support for its Sunderland operation.

- TOM KEIGHLEY

Global news service Reuters has reported the Japanese manufacturer is discussing backing in return for commitments to long term investment in its Wearside plant. Grants, tax breaks and subsidies are said to be on the table in exchange for protection of jobs.

The news follows a recent announcement by Nissan that it is looking to partner with Chinese brand Chery - the maker of brands such as Jaecoo - to build its models at Sunderland. It could see Chery vehicles roll off the factory's production Line One, which was paused earlier this year amid significant restructuring across Nissan.

Such a deal is set against widespread cost saving measures at Nissan, which is closing a number of factories globally and shedding thousands of jobs, including some in Europe. The efforts are in response to hefty losses and intense competition from global rivals.