MPs and union fight to protect jobs at Camelon bus firm

A cross-party group of MPs – including Falkirk’s John McNally – have written to the Prime Minister to demand the £3 billion he committed in February to fund investment for “at least 4000 new zero emission buses” is brought forward as soon as possible.

In the letter to Boris Johnson, Mr McNally stated: “Buses are a vital pillar of local communities across the UK, particularly in rural and deprived areas. However,

with regular travel significantly reduced and social distancing measures curtailing capacity, the impact of COVID-19 threatens the future of the UK’s bus network.

“At worst, the current environment could put the industry at risk entirely and confront the government with the choice between nationalisation or seeing thousands of routes cuts, and jobs lost in manufacturing sites in our constituencies.

“The government must ensure the bus system has a sustainable future as part of its plans for the UK’s economic recovery. The £3 billion already committed for at least 4000 zero emission buses will be a critical, potentially life-saving, boost for the industry, and will sustain and create thousands of jobs.

“We also want to see the government be technology-neutral in its approach, ensuring a fair split between hydrogen electric and battery electric. As the transport secretary has noted, all three UK bus manufacturers make a hydrogen bus and we have stolen a march over international competitors in this technology.

“Urgent action to support growth in the production of hydrogen buses, such as via 2000 UK made hydrogen buses as part of the 4000 you have pledged,

will allow costs to decrease and export potential to increase; creating more jobs and economic growth.”

Union Unite is also looking for increased support for ADL at this time.

Unite industrial officer Willie Thomson said: “We are continuing to press the UK Government to deliver on its promise of 4000 new and greener buses which would support the industry and the environment.

“At this moment it remains only a promise and the bus manufacturing industry is on its knees as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Support for the world class manufacturing jobs in Camelon is needed now.

“We call on John McNally and his colleagues at Westminster to press the UK Government to deliver on their promise. Without government support we fear there could be dire consequences for our members and the local Falkirk economy.

“As the local MP, Unite would welcome the chance to meet directly with Mr McNally to press the urgency for action.”