Nissan has announced “decisive action to protect the long term viability of its manufacturing operations in Sunderland” - it is laying off 1,200 workers.

This figure includes 400 staff on temporary contracts, Nissan hopes the rest will be voluntary redundancies.

Unions said the news was "devastating".

Unite's joint general secretary, Derek Simpson said: "This is devastating news for the workers and their families.

"Today's announcement shows just how serious Britain's economic difficulties are.

"Unite will be doing everything possible to minimise compulsory redundancies and it is absolutely crucial that these workers' skills are not lost.

"The economy will improve and when it does Nissan will need these workers again."