Car manufacturing giant Jaguar Land Rover has said it will close plants across the 海角视频 for three weeks in a bid to help stop the spread of the deadly coronavirus.
An email to staff was widely circulated last night, in which they were told the temporary closure was necessary to support the business - also thanking workers for their dedication to the firm.
As yet, it's unclear when JLR's Halewood site on Merseyside, which employs around 4,000 people, will close, as .
They were told more information will be issued locally over the next few days.
The email, sent by JLR's executive director Grant McPherson, said: "Taking advice from Jaguar Land Rover’s in-house Chief Medical Officer and as well as the 海角视频 government, we have made the decision to come to a controlled stop for part of week 13, then for weeks 14, 15 & 16.
"The exact date and time will differ by plant and will be briefed locally by your director - please look out for the communication.
"We plan to start up again week 17, we have decided to plan for this date but we know that the situation in the 海角视频 is evolving fast."
The email does not outline what the payment situation will be during this period but the company have made it clear that some staff members will still be required to work.
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Mr McPherson added: "For those employees who we will need to work during this time, we will follow all the necessary guidelines to protect them."
The boss was quick to praise staff and even described them as an inspiration in the way they have over the difficult last few weeks.
He said: "You, our people make this business. It’s understandable that many of you feel anxious about your health, livelihoods and our future and at this time, I urge everyone to remain calm.
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"It always inspires me when I see our team in manufacturing pull together showing that fighting spirit and belief in our future.
"Now, more than ever, I can’t emphasise enough the need to come together as a team, look out for each other and protect our incredible business."
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The announcement comes just days after Halewood Jaguar Land Rover, and its partner employers DHL Supply Chain and Manpower, indicated it was“business as usual” at the site until government advice changes.
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Earlier this week, as workers began to fall ill and become stressed over the ongoing pandemic.
One employee, who did not wish to be named, told the ECHO: “It's not good, it's like a pressure cooker in here.”
Employees said that some agency staff were told they may be disciplined if they leave the site to self-isolate – however this was denied by JLR and DHL.
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A DHL employee said: “Over 150 staff have walked off the job due to people coughing and not covering their mouths to catch it, people have been arguing and fighting that has shut the line down.
“Management meeting today says if you go off for self isolation you’ll be paid sick pay accordingly however on your return you could face disciplinary action for time off.
“People are now getting asked to jump on Fork lift trucks without any disinfectant to clean them before hand, to cover the people who have walked out or self isolating.
“To be fair it’s mayhem at the moment.”