On the question of job cuts and issues with the Union, Kant said, “we are looking at a fruitful relationship with Unite (the Jaguar union).” Jaguar Land Rover’s employees, trade unions and the UK government were kept informed of developments as the sale process progressed and have indicated their support for the agreement, the company said. Unite has expressed happiness with the acquisition.

Unite had expressed its preferences for Tata Motors during the deliberations but is disappointed with Ford Motor Company for not retaining a small stake in the two brands and exiting them in its entirety. “We are happy with the development and glad about the fact that Tata has safeguarded jobs in Britain. Also heartening are the commitments given to the future of Jaguar Land Rover and the long-term supply agreements for components, especially engines, from Bridgend and Dagenham,” said Unite’s joint leader Tony Woodley.

Ford Motor company president and CEO Alan Mulally said, “Jaguar and Land Rover are terrific brands. We are confident that they are leaving our fold with the products, plan and team to continue to thrive under Tata’s stewardship. Now, it is time for Ford to concentrate on integrating the Ford brand globally, as we implement our plan to create a strong Ford Motor Company that delivers profitable growth for all.”

British marquees’ 123-year saga

1885: Rover brand starts life as Starley & Sutton Co’s Rover Safety Bicycle, which replaces the unstable penny farthing bicycles of its day

1903: Rover starts work on its first motor car, led by designer Edmund Lewis who joined from Daimler

... contd.