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Baroness O'Grady of Upper Holloway Excerpts

Tuesday 25th February 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Jones of Whitchurch (Lab)]

My Lords, we are very aware of the situation with regard to China, in particular Chinese electric vehicles. China’s role in the global automotive industry is growing, which presents both risks and opportunities for us. We will not hesitate to act where that creates issues or problems for the UK, but we are very mindful of the opportunities that this presents as well. Our automotive industry in the UK is very different from those of other European countries because it is export oriented; we export 80% of our cars abroad, unlike, for example, the EU and the US, where production is sold domestically. Nevertheless, we are aware of the issues that the noble Lord raises and will continue to act in our interests.

[Baroness O'Grady of Upper Holloway (Lab)]

My Lords, I declare an interest as the daughter of a former assembly line worker at Cowley—I am very conscious of the incredibly skilled and dedicated workforce there—and as a trade unionist who, frankly, has worked with motor companies and unions through many ups and downs over the years and knows the importance of working together. Can my noble friend reassure us that, as well as working closely with the company, the Government are working closely with the unions to ensure a strong future for the car industry and that that future is electric?