THE leader of the Liberal Democrats discussed the most topical issues affecting the automotive sector when he visited the Inchcape Volkswagen dealership in Twickenham.
Sir Vince Cable was joined by Sue Robinson, director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which last year launched the NFDA Parliamentary Engagement Programme to raise awareness of the automotive retail industry and strengthen the relationship between the industry and the government.
Topics included apprenticeship schemes and other initiatives available to promote opportunities in automotive retail, the investments automotive franchised retailers make on behalf of their manufacturers, plus the changes facing the car market and how the industry is adapting.
Shaun Kirby, general manager at Inchcape Volkswagen Twickenham, which is an NFDA member, said: ‘I was delighted to meet and show Sir Vince around my centre. Inchcape is a great business to work for and it was a pleasure to talk to him about the company and how we operate.’
Robinson added: ‘The visit provided an ideal opportunity to discuss some of the main issues affecting our sector. In particular, it was encouraging to see the commitment of both retailers and government to promote to young people the number of employment opportunities available within the industry and increase diversity.’
Cable said: ‘It was a pleasure to meet a local employer and see that they are investing in people and using the latest technologies to enhance consumer demand. The visit helped me obtain further insight into the industry and understand the priorities of the sector.’
Pictured are Sir Vince Cable, right, and Shaun Kirby
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