Lotus reassures Business Secretary it has no plans to close Norfolk plant
Reports had suggested up to 1,300 jobs were at risk
Lotus has reassured the Business Secretary that the carmaker has no plans to close its Norfolk plant after speculation it could shutter UK operations.
On Sunday, Jonathan Reynolds met with Lotus and Chinese multinational Geely, which has been the majority owner of the British sportscar brand since 2017.
A Department for Business & Trade spokesperson said: "The Business Secretary met with Lotus and Geely earlier to clarify the company's situation following recent speculation, and was reassured by management that they are committed to their UK operations and have no plans to close their Hethel plant."
"He also set out Government's commitment to working with Lotus and the wider car sector to improve competitiveness and drive growth, including by slashing manufacturers' energy costs and providing £2.5 billion capital and R&D funding, announced in the UK's modern Industrial Strategy."
The Financial Times had reported that Geely was considering shutting up shop in the UK and in favour of a new plant in the US, putting 1,300 jobs at risk.
On Saturday, Lotus sought to assuage concerns with a statement saying it was continuing normal operations in the UK, which it called its largest commercial market in Europe and the "heart" of the brand.
The company said: "We are actively exploring strategic options to enhance efficiency and ensure global competitiveness in the evolving market.
"We have invested significantly in R&D and operations in the UK, over the past six years.
"Lotus remains committed to the UK, and its customers, employees, dealers, suppliers, as well as its proud British heritage."