URGENT calls for an end to the Brexit deadlock have been issued in response to news Honda will stop production temporarily after March 29.

The car manufacturer announced on Thursday it would halt production at the South Marston plant for six days after Britain officially leaves the EU to minimise disruption at the border.

The plant, which relies on just-in-time delivery of parts to keep its assembly line running, employs around 3,600 in Swindon.

Although the firm added that the plant will remain open, and workers will still be paid.

MP for south Swindon Robert Buckland called on his fellow parliamentarians to back the Prime Minister’s withdrawal agreement to prevent further disruption.

“I spoke with Honda representatives and can see the sense in ensuring the fullest flexibility in April to cope with a no deal Brexit,” he told the Adver.

“This is why the Prime Minister’s deal, which is supported by Honda and the UK Motor Industry, must be supported soon by Parliament.”

The news drew a strong response from Labour who said Theresa May was recklessly putting jobs at risk.

Sarah Church, the Labour parliamentary for South Swindon, said: The news that the Swindon Honda plant will close for six days after Brexit shows what damage has been done by the approach Theresa May’s irresponsible government has taken to Brexit.

“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.

“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."

Justin Tomlinson, MP for North Swindon, added: "Honda are understandably making preparations for any scenario but absolutely remain committed to Swindon.

"As the senior vice present of Europe has reinforced; Swindon is a crucial part of their entire global network.

"Myself and Robert have been working closely with Honda during the negotiation period and they fully support the PMs Brexit Deal, which is vital for not just delivering the democratic will of Brexit but also providing certainty and stability, which opportunistic MPs need to understand is in the national interest."