UK gets jobs boost as Nissan commits to building two new models in Sunderland

Nissan says it will build two new car models in Sunderland, securing thousands of jobs and providing a major boost to the post-Brexit UK economy. Theresa May welcomed the Japanese company’s decision, saying it was a “vote of confidence” that “shows Britain is open for business”. There had been fears the manufacturer would put the brakes on further investment in the UK because of the EU referendum.Nissan has confirmed it will build its next-generation Qashqai and add production of the new X-Trail model at Britain’s biggest car plant, in the first major automotive investment decision since June’s Brexit vote.

I welcome British Prime Minister Theresa May’s commitment to the automotive industry in Britain and to the development of an overall industrial strategy.

Carlos Ghosn, Nissan Chief Executive

Chief executive Carlos Ghosn said Government “support and assurances” helped the firm decide to make the models in Sunderland. He added: “Our employees there continue to make the plant a globally competitive powerhouse, producing high-quality, high-value products every day.” In September, Mr Ghosn warned that he could scrap new investment without a guarantee of compensation for costs related to any new tariffs resulting from Brexit. However, earlier this month, following talks with the Prime Minister, Mr Ghosn said the commitment by the Government that Sunderland would remain competitive, gave Nissan the confidence to go ahead.

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