Unite’s first meeting with Ford over the possible sale of its Jaguar and Land Rover brands was 'highly charged, but inconclusive'.

The joint general secretaries of the UK’s largest trade union, Tony Woodley and Derek Simpson, met with Lewis Booth, the head of Ford Europe today.

“We are very clear that Ford has long established commitments in the UK to Jaguar Land Rover and Ford blue oval workers. That means they have long term commitments to their UK operations,” Woodley said.

Unite demanded to be involved in discussions with the possible disposal of Ford’s Premier Automotive brands last week.

“That is why we have not only reiterated our demands to be involved at all stages of any sale process but we want to meet any prospective buyer.

“So far the standard of information coming from Ford leaves a lot to be desired and we have left the company in no doubt of that. We will meet again in a couple of weeks, where we hope to agree an acceptable way forward,” added Woodley.

Ford sold its luxury sports brand Aston Martin earlier this year, prompting calls that it would look to offload its Jaguar and Land Rover brands.