OBR report shows government silent on Nissan deal
The UK government has given no further details regarding a deal offered to Japanese car-maker Nissan as a result of ongoing negotiations related to Britain's exit from the European Union, according to a report released by the Office for Budget Responsibility.
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00:00 10/05/24
Nissan has committed to building two new car models at its Sunderland factory, and questions have been raised about the assurances that were given to the company in light of its concerns regarding investing in Britain post-Brexit.
In today's report from the OBR, it shows that the body asked for specific details regarding the government's deal with the Japanese company, but it "declined to say" anything on the matter.
European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said earlier this week that she had no concerns about the UK government's dealings with Nissan, which will see the 7,000 jobs at the Sunderland plant being retained.
Chairman of the Treasury Committee Andrew Tyrie wrote to Chancellor Philip Hammond last week to seek assurances about the agreement.
"The Government has not yet clarified whether any form financial assistance has been discussed with Nissan to persuade it to stay in Sunderland," Tyrie wrote.
"If it has made commitments that could lead to a call on public funds, the Government would have a duty to inform Parliament about them now."
Prime minister Theresa May has defended the actions of the government, and praised Nissan's decision as "a recognition that the government is committed to creating and supporting the right conditions for the automotive industry."
In a briefing following Chancellor Philip Hammond's Autumn statement on Wednesday, OBR spokesperson Robert Chote said it was "impossible" to come to any conclusions about Brexit die to the uncertainty surrounding the process.