SMMT President reveals motor industry results

• Sustainability Report launched at SMMT Annual Dinner
• Energy consumption down 22 per cent
• £1.3 billion invested in R&D
• 850,000 jobs now involved in the sector

SMMT President Nick Reilly CBE, unveiled the 2nd Annual Sustainability Report

which showed that the UK’s biggest manufacturing sector continues to lead the

way in achieving economic growth, using less materials and developing employees.

Speaking at the SMMT’s 85th Annual Dinner, attended by Minister

of State for Industry and Energy Brian Wilson MP, Nick Reilly CBE said, ‘After

the boom and bust of the dotcom era, the motor industry emerges yet again as

the bluechip industry which consistently delivers real value by listening to

consumers.

‘The motor industry is one of the most complex and fascinating

sectors in the 21st Century landscape and the Annual Sustainability Report clearly

demonstrates our leadership in delivering on the three pillars of economic,

social and environmental achievement.

‘I am particularly pleased to report that energy consumption

in our factories has fallen some 22 per cent year on year, Carbon Dioxide emissions

from plants are down 17 per cent year on year, whilst at the same time 82 per

cent of signatories achieved Investor in People status.

‘2001 is set to be a record year for vehicle sales, and the

aftermarket has recovered after tough commercial challenges in 2000. Britain

has more manufacturers making cars and commercial vehicles than any other country

and we should celebrate the benefits that our industry brings to the UK economy’.

ends

Notes to Editors:

1. The Sustainability Strategy was launched by the SMMT in

   March 2000 with 11 major companies, employing more than 95,000 people and

   with a combined annual turnover of over £20,000 million, as founding

   signatories. The 1st Annual Report provided detailed information and assessment

   of the industry’s performance in three key areas; environmental, social and

   economic.

2. The 2nd Annual Sustainability Report has increased its coverage

   with 18 major companies reporting across 44 sites in the UK. The report now

   reflects a total sector turnover of £45 billion with exports totalling

   £19.8 billion.

3. The key indicators for the report show:

The gaps in the table relate to data that could not be verified

information.

4. A full copy of the report can be viewed (on this web site)