British government talks Jag with Ford

Concern for British automotive industry jobs, the government is talking about Jaguar with Ford.

LONDON - The government is in contact with Ford over the possible sale of the U.S. carmaker's Jaguar and Land Rover brands.

"We are in touch with the company. We still believe both Land Rover and Jaguar are highly successful companies and will have a highly successful future," a spokesman for Tony Blair said on Tuesday.

Sources familiar with the matter said on Monday that Ford had hired investment banks to explore options including the sale of the two luxury brands.

"The government talks to companies about the possible impact on jobs," the spokesman added.

- REUTERS