On Friday 2nd May 2025, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Solihull, visited Jaguar Land Rover’s Lode Lane plant to meet with senior representatives and reiterate his support for the local employer amidst mounting global trade tensions.
This meeting marked Dr Shastri-Hurst’s second meeting with JLR since the United States announced a 25% tariff on vehicles and automotive components, a decision with significant implications for the UK’s world-leading automotive sector.
Dr Shastri-Hurst has been a vocal advocate in defending Solihull’s vital manufacturing industry. Within 24 hours of the White House announcement, he challenged the Secretary of State for Business and Trade on the floor of the House of Commons, urging for an immediate and coordinated government response.
On 15th April, as part of a delegation to Washington, D.C., Dr Shastri-Hurst held discussions with members of the United States Congress. Speaking on behalf of both his constituents and the wider UK automotive sector, he made the case for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, stressing the importance to workers, businesses, and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.
Speaking following his latest meeting with JLR, Dr Shastri-Hurst said:
Solihull’s automotive sector is the backbone of our local economy and a cornerstone of British manufacturing. The impact of these tariffs is not theoretical – it is real, and it puts jobs and investment at risk.
That is why I have wasted no time in acting. This was my second meeting with JLR since the announcement, and I will continue to push for a robust national strategy to protect our industry and secure our future.
A UK–US Free Trade Agreement is not just a diplomatic ambition – it is a necessity. We must remove barriers, not build them up, and champion free and fair trade that drives innovation and prosperity.
I am grateful to the team at JLR for their continued leadership and their warm welcome. As one of their local MPs, I will keep fighting for their future.
During his visit, Dr Shastri-Hurst toured JLR’s new trim and final line facility, a cutting-edge development backed by over £50 million of investment, enabling expanded production of 4x4 models right here in Solihull.
Councillor Karen Grinsell, of Solihull Council, who also attended the visit, added:
Jaguar Land Rover is a cornerstone of our local economy and a vital part of Solihull’s identity. The scale of their investment and innovation here is a powerful statement of confidence in the Solihull Borough. It’s essential that we work together—locally and nationally—to create the conditions for continued success. I’m proud of the partnership we have built with JLR over the years.
