That question was uniquely silly, especially the quotation that the hon. Gentleman attributed to my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. As I said, all job losses are regrettable. I find them regrettable, as do my right hon. and learned Friend and the Government.

I hope that the hon. Gentleman will support Ford's measures to improve the plant's competitiveness to ensure its future, and that he will be pleased by the enormous investment that Ford has made in this country. I look forward to his supporting the economic policies that have created and continue to create jobs in this country; unemployment is falling here, but is rising in every other major European country. That ability to create jobs results in this country's success and provides big opportunities for everyone, including people on Merseyside.