SOLIHULL MP WELCOMES PROPOSED LAND ROVER DEAL

8.26.00am GMT Fri 4th Jan 2008

Commenting on the Ford announcement accepting Indian car maker Tata as preferred bidder for the purchase of Land Rover and Jaguar, Lorely Burt said:

'This proposed acquisition looks like a win-win, not only for Ford and Tata, but for the tens of thousands of workers whose jobs depend on the continuing presence of Jaguar and Land Rover in the UK.

'Tata's usual method of operating is to maintain workforces and manage from a distance. They will benefit from access to advanced technology and their first motor vehicle acquisition outside Asian car markets. Ford should benefit from continuing to supply Land Rover and Jaguar with engines and the workforce should benefit from the retention of production in the UK.

However, Mrs Burt cautioned against excessive optimism on yesterday's statement:

'This is not yet a done deal. There are still important matters to be agreed. It may be a little while yet before a final agreement is reached.'