Jane Kennedy, MP

JANE Kennedy has welcomed a £27million Government boost for Jaguar Landrover's Halewood plant.

The money will fund the production of a new car to be built at Halewood and will help safeguard the jobs of JLR workers.

The business is looking to invest around £400m in the project, which will lead to the production of a new, greener vehicle.

The Halewood workforce recently voted to accept a pay freeze until 2010 and a four-day week to counter falling orders, because of the global recession.

Jane Kennedy said:"I am really pleased that the Government is providing practical support to Jaguar Landrover to help them through this difficult period.

"I have been  pressing the case for Jaguar Landrover in Westminster and Whitehall and I am delighted that the Government has been listening.

"The announcement will help safeguard the jobs of workers at JLR and in the supply chain businesses locally which depend on JLR. It is very welcome news for local workers and their families."

Jane added: "As Environment Minister it is also great to see JLR leading the way in the development of new, more environmentally friendly vehicles."

Business secretary Peter Mandelson said: "The project would secure production and employment at the Halewood facility and maintain the design capability for Jaguar Land Rover in the UK. This is an important investment for the future and we are delighted to be able to offer this grant support."

The funding is subject to approval from the European Commission and is completely separate from the £2.3billion Automotive Assistance Programme which is being discussed by the Government with motor manufacturers and supply chain companies.