Reuters reported that Honda is to create 500 new jobs at its Swindon car plant with the mass production of the New Civic, doubling production and providing a welcome boost to Britain's sluggish car industry.

Mr Manabu Nishimae president of Honda Motor Europe said that Swindon was at the heart of Honda's European manufacturing activities, with the plant set to return to a two shift operation in late spring next year, and recruitment starting immediately.

Prime Minister Mr David Cameron said the Japanese car maker was contributing to a real renaissance in the UK automotive industry. He added that "Its success is of great importance to our economy and we are committed to do all that we can to see this vital industry grow and thrive."

The Swindon plant is also set to begin mass production of the new European CR-V car along with the production of a small diesel engine. Production volume of cars at the plant for 2012 is forecast to double to 180,000 units.

(Sourced from www.reuters.com)