HC Deb 07 February 1986 vol 91 cc287-8W
Mr. Norman Atkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what account he took of the long-term agreement reached between Land Rover and Fiat of Italy for the supply of engines for the Land Rover vehicle when he made his statement to the House on Monday 3 February; and if he will make a further statement in regard to promises given to his Department by General Motors.

Mr. Peter Morrison

[pursuant to his reply, 6 February 1986, c. 252]: I am told by Land Rover Ltd. that it does not have agreements with Fiat of Italy.

Were a deal with GM to be reached in relation to Leyland Trucks, Land Rover, Freight Rover and certain related overseas operations, it would be willing to give full undertakings that the majority of products sold by the businesses involved would be manufactured in the United Kingdom; that the products would continue to have a high local content; that there would be a substantial level of exports; that research and development facilities will be maintained and developed in the United Kingdom; that Land Rover will retain its distinct British identity; and that appropriate level of investment will be injected into the business to achieve competitive future models and facilities.