Mini disruption won't delay deliveries

Mini customers have been reassured that there are unlikely to be any delays in deliveries, despite the firm's Oxfordshire plant being forced to close down last weekend.

The Cowley plant in Oxfords had to close because crucial parts couldn't get to the factory due to fuel protests in Spain, which have effectively blocked all its airports and ports.

However, the parts have now arrived, and production is expected to restart this afternoon.

A spokesman said: 'As far as we can tell, there will be no delays in deliveries to dealers. However, any customers that are waiting for a car and are concerned should contact their dealer.'

Lorry drivers in Spain have been blockading major cities in a protest over diesel prices since last Monday.

About 700 Minis are produced every day at Cowley, where 4700 people work three shifts, seven days a week.