THE Prime Minister has vowed to protect Ellesmere port’s Vauxhall plant.

Speaking during question time in Parliament on Wednesday last week, Gordon Brown moved to assure workers at the factory that the government will fight to keep it alive following a bid by Italian car-maker Fiat to buy into the company.

He said: “Proposals arising from Fiat in relation to Chrysler and General Motors are being discussed. There is another Canadian bidder looking at trying to move into Europe. A number of issues have to be discussed in relation to these offers.

“We are determined to protect our Ellesmere Port and Luton operations of General Motors.”

Andrew Miller, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, welcomed the apparent support being given for Vauxhall Ellesmere Port.

He said: “The Prime Minister’s unambiguous commitment during Question Time is an important signpost for any potential investors with an interest in Vauxhall.”

Mr Miller added the scrappage scheme, for which he has been a leading campaigner since October, will also help Vauxhall. It becomes operational on May 18.