Emma Reynolds, Labour MP for Wolverhampton North East and Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has written to Goodyear as part of her ongoing campaign calling on the company to reverse its decision.

In a letter to Goodyear’s Human Resources Vice-President, Rajita D’Souza, Emma wrote: “Could you clarify what consultations Goodyear undertook with the workforce in Wolverhampton and with their trade union representatives about these plans in line with European and UK legislation. It is vital that workers were consulted at the earliest opportunity.

“I understand that there are high levels of productivity at the plant and that it is profitable. I also understand that 80% of the demand for retread tyres comes from the UK. I would be grateful, therefore, it you could explain on what basis the company has taken this decision.”

Speaking afterwards, Emma said: “Goodyear is an iconic Wolverhampton company. Generations of families have worked at the factory. The announcement in June that Goodyear planned to close the factory was a serious blow to our city. On the day of the announcement I secured an urgent meeting with the company to establish exactly what their reasons were. My understanding is that the factory has high levels of productivity and is profitable.

“I therefore hope that there is still a possibility that the company will reconsider its decision and I continue to lobby both the company and the government on behalf of Goodyear’s loyal and long serving workface. I am also continuing my work with Wolverhampton City Council, the Local Enterprise Partnership and other significant employers and business people so that if the factory does close, we can help provide other opportunities in the local area to the workers.”