Fears over GM; Inbrief.

THOUSANDS of employees at motor giant Vauxhall were returning to work today after a week-long shutdown, with a huge question mark hanging over their future.

Union leaders will step up demands for the Government to help secure the jobs of 5,500 workers at the Vauxhall car plant in Ellesmere Port, Merseyside, and van factory in Luton, Bedfordshire.

The continued uncertainty over British jobs came as Vauxhall owner General Motors made final preparations for bankruptcy protection in the United States.

GM's European arm is set to be spared bankruptcy following a proposed deal by Canadian car parts maker Magna International to buy the Vauxhall and Opel brands.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said he had received assurance from GM Europe that Vauxhall production would remain in the UK..