The business secretary, Peter Kyle, is set to visit Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) amidst the company’s extended production shutdown, which is now slated to last until October 1, following a significant cyber-attack on August 31. As the UK’s largest car manufacturer grapples with this unprecedented disruption, concerns have surged regarding the ramifications for its extensive supply chain.
Last week, JLR halted operations at its facilities not only within the UK but also across its factories in Slovakia, Brazil, and India, creating a ripple effect that has affected dozens of suppliers. In light of this crisis, unions have urged the government to implement a furlough scheme to assist workers who are facing financial strains due to the shutdown. Notably, many employees attributed to the supply chain are already feeling the economic impact through no fault of their own.
Industry minister Chris McDonald emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We have two priorities: helping Jaguar Land Rover get back up and running as soon as possible and the long-term health of the supply chain.” During the visit, both he and Peter Kyle aim to engage with supply chain companies, listen to workers’ concerns, and discuss strategies for reinvigorating production.
The Unite union’s call for a furlough scheme highlights the critical nature of the support needed for workers affected by the extended shutdown. Meanwhile, JLR has taken the initiative to provide support for its supply chain without relying on immediate state intervention.
A spokesperson for JLR stated, “We have made this decision to give clarity for the coming week as we build the timeline for the phased restart of our operations and continue our investigation.” The company is currently collaborating closely with cybersecurity professionals, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), and law enforcement to ensure that operations can resume safely.
In addition to focusing on cybersecurity and resolving the immediate crisis, JLR stressed its commitment to its customers, suppliers, and employees. The spokesperson expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and patience displayed by all those connected with the company during this challenging period.
