Thousands of MG Rover workers have the right to a job for life following a court ruling, The Times reported.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The newspaper said the judgment means that MG Rover must honour an agreement struck between unions and the car group’s former owner, BMW, in 1997 even though the business is now independent and a fraction of its former size.


According to The Times, Birmingham County Court ruled for the T&G union, which challenged MG Rover’s ability to threaten Kulvinder Kaur, an employee, with compulsory redundancy. The court reportedly said that an agreement with BMW, struck in return for more flexible working arrangements, stated that there would be no compulsory redundancies at the Longbridge factory. Kaur had worked at MG Rover for 14 years, the report added.


Tony Woodley, the T&G general secretary, told The Times: “It is an important and unique judgment. Too often in this country agreements are broken by dishonest and dishonourable companies when it suits them, as happened with the Vauxhall and Ford plant closures.”


The report said Kaur was given another job, but the union pursued her case to establish a precedent for other employees.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The Times said MG Rover is likely to receive claims from 10 workers made redundant when it took over the business. They reportedly lost an appeal for unfair dismissal but may now sue for breach of contract while MG Rover will also be hampered in any future attempt to impose redundancies.


The company is appealing against the decision, The Times said.


A spokeswoman told the paper: “It is not appropriate to comment on the case in detail. But in today’s competitive market place, it is unrealistic for any company to offer its employees a job for life.”

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now