Mini boost could create jobs

Reports that up to 1000 new jobs could be created at the Mini factory in Cowely, Oxfordshire have been played down by BMW.

BMW spokeswoman Angela Stangroom said that while BMW had confirmed both new Minis would be produced at Oxford, the number of jobs to be created was mere speculation.

'This suggestion of thousands of jobs is not coming from us, it's just a little premature', she said.

Currently, 4000 workers are employed at the Mini factory in Cowley, Oxfordshire, where they build three versions of the current car.

Earlier this year, 850 jobs were cut at the site, but a surge in global demand for small cars, along with the UK's scrappage scheme, has resulted in many of the redundant workers being re-employed in addition to the extra posts that are expected to be announced.

Good news for the UK car industry
Commenting on the news, Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: 'The production of two new Minis is very good news for Oxford, and for the UK car industry.

'British drivers have had a long love affair with the Mini and I'm sure that this will continue for many years to come.'

The two new models that are to be built at the factory, one of which will be the Coupe (pictured), will be unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show on September 15.

It's expected that production of the two new models will not start for another year.