Toyota boss hints at keeping UK plants even if Britain leaves EU

The boss of Toyota has hinted that the car manufacturer will keep its UK plants even if Britain votes to leave the EU.

Chief executive Akio Toyoda, suggested that the Japanese firm was looking to "deepen" its ties and would still be operating at its factory in Burnaston, Derbyshire, in 2090.

He told the Financial Times that former staff had buried a time capsule at the assembly plant 25 years ago and he believed the firm's workers would be there to open it.

Mr Toyoda's comments came as the debate around Britain's membership of the EU intensified, with David Cameron insisting ministers in his government do not campaign for a "Brexit" until renegotiation talks finish.

The Prime Minister hopes to strike a deal on his demands at a crunch summit in Brussels next month, which will then allow him to recommend that the UK remains within a reformed EU, but until the talks are concluded, he stressed that all his ministers should follow the government line.

He also hinted an in/out referendum could take place as early as this summer.

Mr Toyoda suggested further investment by the car-maker could hinge on access to the wider EU market.

The company employs around 3,400 staff in both Derbyshire and its engine plant in Deeside, north Wales.