Toyota cuts UK production after earthquakes

Car giant Toyota is to build its new-generation family-sized hatchback at its UK factory (GETTY IMAGES)

Toyota has become the third Japanese car maker to announce production cutbacks in UK factories as a result of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

The firm announced today that it would suspend production at its two sites in this country over the Easter holiday period in order to conserve parts.

Both the vehicle factory in Burnaston, Derbyshire and the engine plant in Deeside, north Wales will have a non-production day on April 21 and will shut down on April 22 and remain closed for the three days between Easter Monday and the Royal Wedding Public Holiday on April 29, returning to work on May 3.

There will also be reduced production volumes in May. Specific details of production volumes and operation will be decided after consultation with employee representatives and other stakeholders.

The car maker said: "This decision is necessary as a result of forecasted parts supply difficulties and at the moment no decision has been made regarding production beyond the month of May."

No decision has yet been made regarding production beyond May.

The company said it would continue to evaluate its supply chain and make plans based on the situation.

Tony Walker, deputy managing director of Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK said: "We very much appreciate the strong support of our members in helping us manage this difficult situation.

"Similar steps to slow production and conserve parts are being taken at Toyota's vehicle manufacturing plants, in France (Toyota Motor Manufacturing France), Turkey (Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey) and engine plant in Poland (Toyota Motor Industries Poland)."

Honda and Nissan have also announced production cuts at their UK sites.