Parts woe prompts train lay-offs

Managers say major projects are being delayed by minor parts

Derby train maker Bombardier has confirmed it is to send workers home - despite having full order books.

The firm has told 77 temporary workers not to come in to the Litchurch Lane factory for two weeks as it has run out of parts to complete some orders.

Managers said some of its suppliers were struggling with finances and this was holding up major projects.

The company, which employs 2,000 people, said the problems could mean more workers being laid off.

Managers at the Canadian-owned firm said they were busier than ever but a lack of investment credit meant other companies could not supply components.

Colin Walton from Bombardier said: "It is an ironic situation that we have cars that are nearly complete - maybe just waiting for one component.

"These cars are well over �1m each and they could be left here waiting for a �50 component."

He added that the company was working with the suppliers to try to speed up the delivery of vital parts.

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