Secretary of State for Business and Trade has called on Stellantis to reconsider closing the Vauxhall factory in Luton after meeting with the town’s MPs.

This week, Jonathan Reynolds MP met with Rachel Hopkins, Sarah Owen, and Unite representatives to discuss the company’s plans to close vehicle production in Luton and relocate its operations to Ellesmere Port.

A spokesperson for Rachel Hopkins, Luton South and South Bedfordshire MP, said: “As the consultation period continues, Rachel is committed to working with the government, the Vauxhall plant’s Unite representatives and Luton Borough Council to make every effort to maintain manufacturing at the Luton plant and secure the best outcome for workers and their families.”

Last month, Vauxhall owner, Stellantis, announced its plan to close shift electric van production to its Ellesmere Port plant in Merseyside as part of a £50 million investment – a decision that could risk over 1,000 jobs in Luton.

Union members outside of Luton's Vauxhall factory. Picture: Unite the Union

placeholder image — Union members outside of Luton's Vauxhall factory. Picture: Unite the Union

In a letter to Ms Hopkins, the Business Secretary said: “Vauxhall has had a proud legacy in Luton for over a century and I share your disappointment that the company has decided to pursue this option.

“I want to assure you that I have written to Stellantis to ask them to pause their decision around redundancy processes to enable more time for discussions with the Government about options to keep the plant open.”

He noted that if Stellantis goes ahead with the closure, his department “will work across Government to ensure the necessary help is put in place to support employees affected by redundancy”.

A spokesperson for Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, said: “She felt it important for her and her constituents to join the workers' demonstration at the plant on Wednesday. Sarah has joined Rachel Hopkins MP in working with ministers, trade unions and Luton Borough Council to keep manufacturing at the Luton plan, and get the best deal for Luton's workers.”

Union workers protested outside the Vauxhall factory in Kimpton Road this week and urged the company to reconsider its decision.

Unite’s national organiser for the automotive industry, Lewis Norton, said: ““It’s to demonstrate to Stellantis, the owner, that this town isn't going to just give up this plant easy. And there is a real strength of feeling that they're not just gonna lie down and let this be closed.”