Can I thank the Member for his question and I recognise the deep concern that he has for not just his own constituents, but the constituents living in neighbouring parts of south Wales? I also know his commitment to the Ford Bridgend plant and the workforce there is unwavering.

Now, in terms of new technology, there is dynamic change taking place within the automotive sector at the moment and the Member identifies the fact that the Jaguar AJ engine will be ceasing production later this decade. Jaguar are not the only manufacturer looking to produce new engines and new types of engines. For that reason, it’s essential that Ford work with other motor manufacturers across Europe and around the world to identify opportunities to develop new engines together, and to bring them to Bridgend. Bridgend has had a history of being the most competitive and productive plant in Europe. We wish to see that status reinstated and I was told by the vice president of Ford today that the workforce—the plant—is on the right journey towards becoming the most competitive again and the most productive again in Europe. That enabled me to argue strongly for the case that further investment is therefore surely—surely—something that should be welcomed and should be driven to the Bridgend plant, because, as new forms of engines are required, Ford in Bridgend have a proven track record of delivering the highest quality in a timely fashion.

The Member is absolutely right that these are challenging times—there’s no doubt about it—but we do have a First Minister who has a proven track record of securing jobs that are at risk. We only need to look at the Tata crisis as an example of how he has been able to deliver on his promise of securing quality jobs for people here in Wales. Indeed, as I’ve already said, he’s done it again this week with GE. My intention is to meet with Len McCluskey later this afternoon. I’ve already spoken with Andy Richards, the general secretary of Unite Wales. I’ve also spoken with local Assembly Members today. I’ve spoken with the First Minister and with Ford’s vice president this morning. It’s my intention to bring together all partners to reinstate a team Ford ethic at Bridgend, one that will lead to further investment and new products being brought to what is an outstanding plant.