LABOUR'S parliamentary candidate for south Swindon says the town's productivity is at risk from irresponsible government delays surrounding Brexit.

Sarah Church spoke out following Honda's announcement that is would stop its production line for six days following Brexit Day on March 29 to avoid potential problems at ports and borders.

She said: "By delaying her vote in the Commons by over a month, the Prime Minister has forced manufacturers to make contingencies for the worst case scenario - a no deal Brexit.

"We would have had certainty one way or another before Christmas if she had allowed Parliament their meaningful vote on our future. I am certain that no one, however they voted in the 2016 Referendum, wanted to see Swindon's productivity fall because of a disregard for our business needs and the livelihoods of working people.

"I fully support those MPs working cross-party to prevent a no deal Brexit, who are firmly putting the national interest first."

In a statement yesterday, the car manufacturer said: "To ensure Honda is well placed to adjust to all possible outcomes, we are planning six non-production days in April.

"This is to facilitate production recovery activity following any delays at borders on parts.

"These contingency provisions have been put in place to best mitigate the risk of disruption to production operations at the Swindon factory."

The company added that although there will be some non-production days the plant will remain open.

Honda employs around 3,600 people at the plant in South Marston.