Fed: Ford demands extra assistance to compete

AAP General News (Australia)
08-26-2008
Fed: Ford demands extra assistance to compete

Ford Australia has put new pressure on the federal government for more financial assistance
to remain competitive .. if tariffs on imported cars are halved beyond 2010.

Ford's international chief executive ALAN MULALLY met Prime Minister KEVIN RUDD and
Industry Minister KIM CARR yesterday .. days after Ford Australia announced it would cut
up to 350 manufacturing jobs because of flat large car sales.

Fairfax newspapers report it's believed Mr MULALLY told Mr RUDD in the 45-minute meeting
that any move to cut tariffs from 10 per cent to 5 per cent in 2010 .. as recommended
in former Victoria premier STEVE BRACKS' review of the car industry .. will require extra
transitional assistance.

The meeting was described as very positive by a Ford spokesman .. but neither Mr RUDD
nor Mr CARR commented after the talks.

AAP RTV jrd/psm/

KEYWORD: FORD (MELBOURNE)

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