Mr President, my Lord Lieutenant, your Worships, your Excellency, Ladies and Gentlemen. I am sorry that operation took just a little time but quality is vital to Nissan. Of course we could not have had such an important doll which has such significance cross-eyed—so I hope it is all right from your vantage point.
It is a great privilege for me to be invited to join in your celebrations today, indeed, I think we are all very happy to be here. It was in 1984 that we heard of Nissan's decision to establish a pilot assembly plant in Britain and we so very warmly welcomed their decision. It was confirmation from Nissan after a long and thorough appraisal, that within the whole of Europe, the United Kingdom was the most attractive country—politically and economically—for large scale investment and offered the greatest potential. That was good news and of course we thought the decision absolutely right. It was a compliment in particular to those who had advocated the benefits of the North East, whose infrastructure, traditions and people offer such a promising environment for substantial new manufacturing exercise.
Since 1984, the first cars have rolled off the production line and new relationships are being forged with component suppliers. A new [end p1] framework for industrial relations has been established within the company and you have embarked on an impressive training programme, here and in Japan for your employees. Much has been achieved. However, while your pilot phase has proceeded to plan, we have awaited eagerly for Nissan's promised statement on its long-term intentions for the Sunderland plant and the strategy you have outlined in your announcement today, Mr Coomie (phon.), has provided the answers and we warmly welcome your statement. Nissan now will be a major manufacturer of cars within the United Kingdom and a major employer for the North East. Nissan will be a major exporter of cars into Europe. Nissan products will include large amounts of local content, build engines here and thus generate many more jobs in the component parts of our industry. Nissan will establish design and development facilities so that the United Kingdom company is fully involved in the design of future models. I have no doubt that you have made a wise decision. Your announcement will also be accepted as clear demonstration that within the British motor industry, Nissan will be a full manufacturer, not simply an assembler of vehicles.
The motor industry in this country has itself made great progress in recent years in its manufacturing efficiency. You and they have to operate in a fiercely competitive international market. I know, however, that it is Nissan's intention to apply the latest technology, both in your products and in your plant and machinery. You bring with you too, your traditional strengths in the managing and organising of the production process. These assets will, I am confident, ensure that you prosper. The Government has been delighted to work with you in this enterprise, and I have had talks with you, both in Japan and here. [end p2]
I congratulate Nissan on its decision and I congratulate all employees of Nissan United Kingdom for the part they have played in bringing this venture to reality. I believe the employees are determined to demonstrate that Nissan United Kingdom can at least draw level with and then overtake the success and quality control of Nissan Japan. I have to explain that I first wrote that I was confident that our people here would draw level with the quality standards in Japan. Having been round and spoken to our people here, I have to revise that as I indicated and say—I am confident that they will overtake the quality standards of Nissan Japan. I wish Nissan Motor Manufacturing United Kingdom a prosperous and profitable and happy future. I will now unveil the plaque which will signify the formal opening of the Nissan plant in Sunderland and it is a very proud and happy moment for me to do so.