Echo readers' concern following Nissan boss's comments about Government compensation over Brexit

Readers have reacted with concern at the news that Nissan will want the UK Government to pledge compensation for any extra costs as a result of Brexit before it invests in its Sunderland plant.
The Nissan plant in Sunderland.The Nissan plant in Sunderland.
The Nissan plant in Sunderland.

Nissan builds around one in three of all of Britain’s total automotive output on Wearside.

Asked at the Paris Motor Show what factors the company would consider in deciding where to build any future model, the car giant’s chief executive Carlos Ghosn told reporters: “If I need to make an investment in the next few months and I can’t wait until the end of Brexit, then I have to make a deal with the UK government.

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“You can have commitments of compensation in case you have something negative.

“If there are tax barriers being established on cars, you have to have a commitment for carmakers who export to Europe that there is some kind of compensation.”

A poll at sunderlandecho.com asking readers “Are you concerned about Nissan’s future in Sunderland post-Brexit?” with 68% of those voting choose yes, compared to 32% who said no.

Readers have also been having their say on our Facebook page.

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Allan McManus wrote: “It’s all Sunderland has. You think it will be just Nissan workers affected, it will spread to everyone including small business owners who would be doing work for people who work for Nissan or somewhere connected to Nissan.”

Neil Tucknutt said: “For myself no, worked there for two years and hated it.

“But for the current workforce, I can see why they’d worry. Not sure they need to though.”

Judith Murphy added: “And so the nightmare continues.

“Nissan is only here because of our membership if the single market, the world’s largest borderless market place. 57% of U .K car exports are destined for the EU.”

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Graham Hindmarch wrote: “100% needs Government backing, that was never in doubt. We need the Government to step up now sooner rather than later.”

Jane Proctor wrote: “Drip drip. This is just the start.”

Mark Matthews wrote: “Buy British.”

On the Echo website Centreist wrote: I’m sorry but the people of Sunderland were warned.

“There are none so deaf as those who will not listen. Business is business.”