An online petition urging Honda to stay in the UK and rethink plans to close its Swindon factory is being launched today (Friday 1 March 2019) as workers crank up their campaign to #SaveHondaSwindon, their union Unite announced.

The petition addressed to Honda’s president and chief executive officer, Takahiro Hachigo, highlights how 3,500 direct jobs and over 12,000 more will be lost across the supply chain in the south west and the wider UK.

In a direct plea to the car boss, the workers urge a rethink, saying that Honda would benefit from moves to ensure the UK is a world leader in the new technology car manufacturing needs to thrive.

Highlighting the skills and dedication of the Honda Swindon workforce and tens of thousands of colleagues in the supply chain, the workers’ petition goes on to urge: “Honda, do not turn your back on a world-class, loyal workforce determined to bring you continued success.

“We have dedicated our working lives to Honda Swindon. Through our hard work this company has thrived – all we ask now is the chance to make our case for the future we deserve.”

Unite is calling on the public to get behind its campaign to persuade Honda to stay in the UK by signing the petition.

Commenting Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: “Unite is urging as many people as possible to back Honda Swindon’s highly skilled workforce, and the tens of thousands of workers in the supply chain who support them, by signing the petition and telling Honda to stay in the UK.

“The closure of the Swindon plant would be devastating not just to the local community and south west economy, but for skills and jobs in the wider supply chain throughout the UK.

“We are calling on Honda to rethink its plans to close its Swindon plant and instead give its loyal dedicated workforce the opportunity to be at the forefront of the global revolution in the next generation of cars.”

ENDS



For more information please contact Alex Flynn Unite head of media and campaigns on 020 3371 2066 or 07967 665869



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