JLR hailed as ‘jewel in the crown’ of UK economy by PM
Jaguar Land Rover has been declared a cornerstone of Britain’s industrial future, with Prime Minister Andy Burnham describing the automaker as the “jewel in the crown” of the UK economy during a high-profile visit to the company’s operations this week.
Burnham backs British manufacturing giant
The Prime Minister’s comments came as JLR continues to navigate a turbulent period for the global automotive sector, with electric vehicle transition costs and shifting trade dynamics putting pressure on manufacturers across the board. JLR employs around 38,000 people directly in the UK, with its main manufacturing sites in Solihull, Castle Bromwich, and Halewood producing models including the Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery.
Burnham was unequivocal. “This company represents everything we want British industry to be — skilled jobs, innovation, and genuine global reach,” a government spokesperson said following the visit.
Still, the praise arrives at a complicated moment. JLR reported revenues of £29.2 billion in its last financial year, but the company has faced ongoing pressure from US tariffs introduced earlier in 2025, which temporarily disrupted export shipments to one of its biggest markets. The firm paused US-bound shipments for several weeks before a partial trade framework offered some breathing room.
What comes next for JLR and UK industry
The government’s endorsement signals a broader intent to anchor advanced manufacturing at the heart of any industrial strategy. Whether that translates into concrete support — tax incentives, infrastructure investment, or trade negotiations — remains the key question.
Burnham is expected to outline further details on UK automotive sector backing within the coming months. For JLR’s workforce and the communities built around its factories, that can’t come soon enough.
