Collapse of caravan manufacturing would see Hull left behind again, MPs warn

Hull MPs have written to the Prime Minister seeking protection for the caravan industry during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Labour’s Karl Turner, Emma Hardy, and Dame Diana Johnson said caravan manufacturers, many of which are based in Hull, risked missing their key trading season of May to August, which could lead to job losses and closures.

The letter said the industry was “crucial to our regional and national economy” and that while the closure of caravan parks and dealerships had been necessary, it had a “devastating impact”.

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And that without help there would be “irrevocable damage to our constituencies and greater cost to the taxpayer in the long term”.

Hull MPs Karl Turner, Emma Hardy, and Dame Diana Johnson. Photo: JPI MediaHull MPs Karl Turner, Emma Hardy, and Dame Diana Johnson. Photo: JPI Media
Hull MPs Karl Turner, Emma Hardy, and Dame Diana Johnson. Photo: JPI Media

They called for caravan dealerships being allowed to reopen when car dealerships do, and caravan parks also being allowed to open for sales and viewings.

“Livelihoods depend on the survival of these businesses, as does the post-coronavirus economic recovery of our city,” the letter added.

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Hull East MP Mr Turner added: “There is a serious risk that places like Hull will yet again be left behind when the UK begins to ease lockdown restrictions.

“Caravan manufacturing, which is so important to our local economy, must not be shut out of the post-coronavirus economic recovery - livelihoods depend on these businesses being given equal treatment.”

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