The 'Phoenix Four' have issued a statement claiming that the rapid disposal of MG Rover's assets is the best solution for those affected by the company’s closure.

The four directors of MG Rover’s holding company Phoenix Venture Holdings set up a trust to support employees and their families.

The statement says: "We have discussed whether any other possibilities, including use of PVH and personal assets, could provide a further mechanism to allow employees to continue to be paid.

"The conclusion of this discussion was that the best use of those assets would be to quickly realise their value for the benefit of the trust established to benefit the families and dependants of the Longbridge workforce.

"This will enable the initial trustees, Carl Chinn and Nigel Petrie, to start providing financial assistance to the employees of Longbridge, and their families. We can also announce that the Bishop for Birmingham, has approached us, and has agreed to become a trustee of that fund.

"In addition to the many millions of pounds being made available for the Employee Trust, we are also committed to provide any other support that the administrators request in creating the best possible employment outcome for this business emerging from insolvency. Despite a concerted view to the contrary, we remain hopeful that car making at Longbridge is not at an end.

"For all of us this is a desperately sad day. Our hearts go out to all of our employees, their families, and the local community, at this terrible time."