Success and failure in the UK car manufacturing industry

Book excerpt: Although initially sparked by the collapse of MG Rover, this inquiry into the UK automotive industry was broadened to examine the following subjects: the principal reasons for the different records of success by different companies;how companies arrive at investment and closure decisions; the role played by trade unions; the appropriate Government response to closure announcements and what the Government could do to help the supply chain and workforce if plants are closed. Overall it foresees mixed prospects for car manufacturing in this country and thinks it is important that the industry and Government put extra effort into improving skills, increasing R&D, adopting lean manufacturing techniques and strengthening the local supply chain.