The Rest Is Money 210. Can The Government Save The UK Car Industry From The Cyber Attack On JLR?
26 snips
Sep 24, 2025 The discussion kicks off with the fallout from the major cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover, leading to concerns about job losses and economic impact. The hosts explore potential government responses, including furlough-style support and retraining for displaced auto workers. They also analyze the ambitious plans for an AI growth zone in the North East and question the credibility of promised regional job investments. Additionally, they touch on the Chancellor's £30 billion budget shortfall and the implications of productivity downgrades on future policymaking.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
JLR Attack Cripples Production And Supply Chain
- Robert describes the Jaguar Land Rover cyber attack as the worst on any UK company to date, halting production since late August. He emphasises the attack's knock-on effect on suppliers and high-skilled jobs in the Midlands.
Production Halts Threaten Permanent Skills Loss
- Peston stresses that stopping production risks permanent loss of skills and capacity if employees are out of work for long. He warns the sector is world-class and losing it would be a major national setback.
Use Temporary Government Support To Protect Supply Chain
- Liam Byrne and Robert suggest using Covid-era supports like furlough and loans to protect workers and suppliers temporarily. Robert outlines an alternative: government buys needed parts from suppliers as a bridge, expecting repayment later.
