Commons row over Rover

By THIS IS MONEY
Updated:

 

Prime Minister Tony Blair has denied the Trade Secretary, Stephen Byers, knew before Christmas that BMW might close the Longbridge Rover plant.

Challenged repeatedly by Tory Leader William Hague at Commons question time, Mr Blair said conversations with the company in December centred on the need to speed up EC aid.

Mr Hague condemned Mr Byers' handling of the Rover sell-off and accused him of failing to understand the seriousness of the situation.

The Prime Minister said Rover faced a 'desperately serious situation' and pledged the Government would carry on doing everything it could to support Longbridge and help workers who lose their jobs.

It was reported earlier that BMW do not expect any other bids for the loss-making subsidiary, clearing the way for venture capitalists Alchemy to take over the ailing UK firm.

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