HONDA last night refused to make any comment on reports it was closing the Swindon plant.

Staff and their families took to social media to question why the news had been leaked to the media before workers were informed.

Senior managers were understood to have yesterday afternoon spent several hours with plant bosses, speaking about the jobs plans.

A statement was expected from Honda at around 8am this morning. A spokesman told the Swindon Advertiser last night: “At this point, we are not able to make any comments regarding the speculation.

“We take our responsibilities to our associates very seriously and will always communicate any significant news with them first.”

Earlier this month, Honda reiterated its commitment to Swindon: “Following the establishment of HUM as the global production hub for the Civic hatchback in 2016, our leadership has spoken publicly about the Swindon site on a number of occasions.”

It is not yet known what impact the decision to close the Swindon plant will have on Honda Logistics UK, which employs more than 1,200 people. Honda UK Manufacturing’s parent company, Honda Motor Company, also owns the Stanton House Hotel, pictured.