Someone in power, somewhere, MUST do something about LDV

Someone in power, somewhere, MUST make an effort to help LDV survive.

The Birmingham van firm employs around 800 workers directly - almost all Brummies, almost all with families dependent on their income.

There's another few thousand workers at component supply firms whose jobs could also be under threat if LDV collapses.

A management buy-out is the last chance, but a cash bridging loan is needed to make this a reality.

Russian owners GAZ aren't helping; the government is saying it won't, unless Gaz do; and the city council is saying it's not its place to provide any grant or loan.

But there is growing anger from many public figures and members of the public who cannot believe the apathy in terms of constructive action that means anything.

Former Northfield MP Roger King has led the verbal assault on the government and council for their blinkered approach.

The Birmingham Mail has projected his concerns in page one tempests. Readers' opinions are hardening against the power-that-be (see our letters page tomorrow).

Yet STILL no-one at the council or government is wanting to act. They seem to think LDV has already gone.

The words of MPs do not help. OK, Sion Simon and Liam Byrne say they are constantly making noises in the corridors of power. But if there is really no assistance I want to see them ANGRY.

Liam - this is your constituency. I take it that if the government allows LDV to collapse you will resign your ministerial role? You too Sion. And for God's sake, Richard Burden, let's see some passion in your comments on the affair in your motoring committee role.

And that's just government. It's time too that councillors start hammering hard at their own doors to see what they can do.

An advice bus? Don't be insulting.

Cause a ripple, Coun Ray Hassall and Coun John Lines, your real Brummies with real opinion who care for your fellow citizens. You sit on the council cabinet... let's start hearing your frustration and annoyance that the mandarins who actually run the council are not doing anything useful.

Director of Planning Clive Dutton... forget for a moment the thrills of Dubai and China and the chances of Brum's future investment from the Far East. Put it to one side and think through quickly how YOU can help LDV NOW. Same goes for you, Stephen Hughes, the city's chief exec... if not a grant, how about a gesture of assistance in kind, a tax break, SOMETHING!

And Mike Whitby, LEADER of the council, it's time for you to show your passion and leadership for Brummie jobs in Birmingham. If you really cannot legally offer a grant or loan, at least stand up and shout loudly at the Government for it's short-sightedness.

Go and meet the workers, understand fully and personally what's at issue and let us see you trying to orchestrate something meaningful.

BIRMINGHAM NEEDS TO TO ACT ON LDV NOW!