As part of his high profile trip to China, PM David Cameron took a look around a Chinese version of the London taxi this week.
He welcomed the announcement that there will be an £80 million investment from Chinese car firm Geely, which bought the cab manufacturer The London Taxi Company earlier this year. In a boon to the UK car manufacturing industry, hundreds of new jobs are being created by this trade deal.
The move is expected to create 500 new jobs at the Coventry plant – taking the total workforce from just under 170 to over 650.
The jobs boost was announced yesterday during a visit by David Cameron to China, where he met the chairman of Geely, Li Shifu, who revealed he intended to operate black cabs in Shanghai.
Black cabs in Shanghai
The Prime Minister said: “Black cabs are synonymous with London. Getting one in Shanghai today highlights how the links between the UK and China can bring rewards for both – Chinese investment helping British businesses to succeed and grow.
“I’m delighted that Geely are investing £80m their UK operation – increasing production at their Coventry plant, building a new development centre and creating 500 new British jobs.”
Addressing a business lunch in Shanghai, Mr Cameron said his message to Chinese companies was: “If you are investing in Britain, invest more. If you are thinking of investing in Britain, come and find us. You will get a warm welcome.”
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