Financial aid plan for JLR suppliers

GOVERNMENT CONSIDERING STOCKPILING CAR PARTS

- HENRY SAKER-CLARK News Reporter

Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle MP (left) during a visit to Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) supplier Webasto, in Sutton Coldfield, this week

THE Government is considering stepping in to help Jaguar Land Rover suppliers after the giant Midlands carmaker halted production when it was targeted by cyber hackers.

The move comes after warnings from unions and politicians that some small suppliers could collapse without urgent financial support. However, it is not expected to launch a Covid-style furlough scheme, despite appeals.

Jaguar Land Rover paused production at the end of August, and earlier this week the company extended its shutdown until October 1 as it continues to grapple with the impact of the attack.

On Tuesday, ministers met firms in JLR's supply chain to discuss pressures on their operations.