Nissan backs UK plant as it unveils survival plan

Nissan is cutting production and car models after sales fell before and during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Nissan said on Thursday it would focus on several "key markets", including Japan, North America and China.

There has been speculation that Renault could switch some production to the Sunderland factory.

Nissan chief executive Makoto Uchida told the press briefing the company would maintain production at its Sunderland plant?

Mr Uchida described the closure of the Barcelona factory as "a very difficult decision".

He added that Unite is seeking assurances from Nissan "that the cost-cutting measures spoken about will not impact on our members' jobs, terms and conditions or other benefits at Europe's most efficient plant, Sunderland.".

For today, Nissan workers can breathe a sigh of relief that Sunderland has been recognised as an important production facility for the future.

On Thursday, Nissan also outlined plans to reduce the range of models of cars and trucks available in order to cut costs

On Thursday the company said it was too difficult to forecast its performance in the next year due to the coronavirus pandemic