Sarah Champion MP Reacts to Announcement of Possible Job Losses At Toyoda Gosei in Rotherham

Sarah Champion, Member of Parliament for Rotherham has pledged to do everything that she can to support workers at Toyoda Gosei in Rotherham, following the company’s announcement that it is considering closing its UK operations. The company, which employs 458 UK staff, including 251 in Rotherham, is set to begin a formal consultation process with employees to discuss the plans.

 Commenting, Sarah said:

“Today’s announcement is deeply concerning, and I am hugely sympathetic to Rotherham workers who now face an uncertain future.’

 “The timing of this announcement couldn’t be worse. People are struggling to deal with the impact of the pandemic and trying to get back on their feet. These plans are another major blow, one that will affect not only Toyoda Gosei’s 251 Rotherham workers, but our entire local economy.”

 Discussing the need to support affected workers, Sarah said:

 “Should the plant indeed close, it is vital that Toyoda Gosei explores every avenue to support affected workers and to help them to find new employment.’

‘I will also be engaging with all parties to ensure that comprehensive support for workers whose livelihoods are at risk is in place. I will be doing everything I can to try to secure the future of the plant and to assist workers at this immensely difficult time.’

‘More broadly, if the Conservative Government are serious about the ‘levelling up’ of the economy, they cannot stand idly by whilst long-established businesses in Rotherham close, cut jobs, reduce investment or relocate. What we need is action, not empty rhetoric and I will continue to fight for the investment and support our town deserves.”