James Cunningham

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Coventry MP Addresses the Ongoing Issue of Peugeot.

Coventry South MP, Jim Cunningham, addressed the ongoing issue of the future of Peugeot yesterday in the House of Commons.

Mr. Cunningham asked the Minister for Industry and Regions, Alun Michael MP, “what steps his Department is taking to encourage manufacturing and research and development in Coventry South, and the West Midlands region…”

The Minister responded, “The manufacturing strategy has been designed by the Government to encourage manufactures in all regions to move to high value added production through the application of science and innovation, world class practice and skills development. There is a long list of support given by the Government, directly and through the regional development agency.”

Mr. Cunningham further stated “I appreciated that there has been considerable investment in the West Midlands, but did the Minister understand that more was needed. I am sure that he knows of events with Rover, where there is serious concern about the intentions of Peugeot. What discussions has he had with that company on future investment models.”

The Minister responded, “I recently met the Chief Executive of Peugeot, Mr. Folz, to discuss the issues and to stress my concern, which very much reflects that of local Members of Parliament. There was a positive response to the wish of Government to work closely with the company and an understanding of our concerns and hopes for the future. There are obviously commercial decisions for the company, but we continue to maintain close contacts, for instance, my officials are having a meeting with the company in the next few days.”

“I look forward to the outcome of these future meetings, and I hope that Peugeot and the Government can work together to come up with long term solutions.”