PRIME Minister Gordon Brown has praised the borough’s MP for his proposals for the future of the car industry.

During an exchange in the House of Commons, Andrew Miller was lauded for suggesting bringing together representatives from the power generation, oil refining and vehicle industries in a high-level summit in order to work out the best way forward for the motor industry.

Mr Miller said: “The issue of future vehicles is enormously important to the British economy.

“We have a very complex transition to undergo, and if Britain is to play a leading role, we must also manage the manufacture of internal combustion engines and secure the maximum efficiency from them.

“May I urge the Prime Minister to bring together representatives of the power generation, oil refining and vehicle industries to create a high-level summit to work out the best way forward for the strategy?”

The Prime Minister replied he would be “happy to do that”.

He added: “Mr Miller has fought hard for the car industry in this country, as well as fighting for the best environmental standards.

“The United Kingdom will continue to lead the battle in Europe to secure a lower car emissions target.

“We are aware of the sensitivities relating to particular models in the UK and will bear them in mind, but it is important to recognise that the prize ahead of us is a 40% reduction in emissions as a result of what we do.

“That is why I think my Hon Friend’s proposal should commend itself to Members in all parts of the House.”

The Pioneer says, page 8.