Nissan to build new car model in Sunderland

Japanese carmaker Nissan will build its new Qashqai model in Sunderland, securing thousands of jobs and providing a major boost to the economy post Brexit.

There had been fears that the company would put the breaks on further investment in the UK because of the EU referendum.

In September, chief executive Carlos Ghosn warned that he could scrap new investment without a guarantee of compensation for costs related to any new tariffs resulting from Brexit.

However, earlier this month, following talks with the prime minister , Mr Ghosn said he was "confident the Government will continue to ensure the UK remains a competitive place to do business."

The government has confirmed that the new Qashqai will be manufactured at Britain's biggest car plant in Sunderland.

The site employs 6,700 workers and has built one in three of Britain's cars last year.

The car industry has raised fears that while a cheaper pound may make their goods more attractive to foreign buyers, an exit from the single market and the prospect of trade tariffs will add to their costs.

More follows...