6. To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what steps the Government is taking to assist the motor manufacturing industry and its associated businesses; and if he will make a statement. (264475)

We are in frequent dialogue with the automotive industry. The Automotive Assistance Programme (AAP) is now open for business and a seminar was held with industry and bank representatives on 11 March to explain the programme in detail. Following demand from the automotive sector for support under the “Train to Gain” scheme, the budget of £65 million has been increased substantially up to £100 million. Automotive firms are also eligible for wider help for business through the Enterprise Finance Guarantee, where appropriate, and Solutions for Business.