Jaguar Land Rover in Daily Talks with Government as Shutdown Continues

The UK government is engaged in daily discussions with Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) as the company grapples with a serious cyber attack that has brought its operations to a grinding halt. The situation, which was first reported last week, has left workers at JLR's factories in the UK and abroad without a job for an uncertain amount of time.

Business and trade minister Sir Chris Bryant told MPs on Tuesday that the government is monitoring the situation closely and is working closely with JLR to resolve the issue. He revealed that the National Cyber Security Centre has been in contact with JLR since last Wednesday, and he himself has spoken to the company. He also plans to meet with the chief executive later this week.

Meanwhile, workers at car assembly plants in Halewood and Solihull, as well as at JLR's engine factory in Wolverhampton, have been told to remain at home until further notice. The factories are not expected to open until Thursday at the earliest, according to sources.

The shutdown has had a significant impact on JLR's operations, with new car sales and servicing also being heavily disrupted. This is particularly concerning given that the release of new registration plates was scheduled for September 1, which would normally be a peak period for selling cars.

The situation remains fluid as JLR attempts to get its networks back up and running. Decisions are being taken on a day-by-day basis, and the government is providing support to key parts suppliers who have been affected by the shutdown.

Evtec, WH Plastics, Suretec, and Opmobility - all of which supply critical components to JLR - have found themselves in an "even more complex situation" than the company itself. The government has assured these suppliers that it will provide every possible support to help them navigate this difficult time.

MPs from areas around the plants will get an opportunity to ask JLR questions during an online meeting on Friday, providing a platform for them to raise their concerns and seek answers.

The incident has also had serious knock-on effects on JLR's supply chain, highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure in the face of cyber threats. The government is committed to prosecuting those responsible for this and other hacking incidents, and Sir Chris stressed the importance of taking a strong stance against cybercrime.

Last week, a group of cyber criminals who were responsible for causing huge disruption at Marks and Spencer and the Co-op earlier this year claimed responsibility for the attack on JLR. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for businesses and individuals to be vigilant in protecting themselves against cyber threats.