FORD has made a partial climbdown over cutting two thirds of jobs at the Halewood Escort plant on Merseyside following talks with the British Government. This comes as Renault faces mounting criticism for planning to shut its Belgian plant.-bold-No-more-than-250-words

Jac Nasser, European head of Ford, told unions fewer jobs would go at Halewood, and that there would be more investment at the plant. He confirmed bright futures for Southampton's transit plant and the Dagenham Fiesta plant.

Greg Knight, industry minister dealing with Ford, said: 'The Government wishes to secure the long term future for Halewood. That is the basis of our discussions.' Some reports have suggested a government grant of £70 million for Halewood is under discussion. A new small MPV is almost certain to be built on Merseyside after 2000.