Swindon MPs, Justin Tomlinson and Robert Buckland, have shown their support for Honda workers affected by the recent changes at the motor manufacturer during a jobs fair featuring dozens of local and national employers.
The company recently announced it was to reduce its production at the site in South Marston due to poor sales in continental Europe, despite the market in the UK being at its strongest since records began. As with previous changes announced by Honda, a taskforce including the town's two MPs, the Council, the Department for Work & Pensions and Forward Swindon
During the day, those employees impacted by the recent announcement had the opportunity to meet with local & national employers, as well as training specialists, to discuss vacancies, learning new skills, CVs and interview technique. The Fair has once again assisted many of those leaving Honda to find new employment or start on the path to re-skilling and finding employment in a completely different industry. In addition, a number of those who attended took time to look into starting their own business; a successful step by several former employees previously.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: "The news that Honda was to reduce the workforce at South Marston was terrible for all concerned but as ever local employers, the Council, Forward Swindon and the Government have swung into action to offer support and guidance to those involved. This event has shown that our local economy is strong and companies are snapping up former Honda employees because of their high quality skills and training. The taskforce continues to support those in search of new employment and will continue to do so!"
Robert Buckland MP said: "The jobs fair played a vital part in assisting former Honda workers following the companies last set of changes. Once again the taskforce has taken action quickly to ensure that those who are seeking new employment have every opportunity and as much as support at their disposal as possible. Swindon's employers turned out in great numbers to work with staff from the South Marston site and I know that employees have found the Fair extremely helpful."
