Business secretary Peter Mandelson is due to meet carmakers' representatives this week to discuss how the Government can help them through the downturn.

No details have been given as to what kind of aid could be made available at the meeting on Wednesday, reports the Bloomberg website.

Lord Mandelson has hinted he is considering offering help to manufacturers' finance arms to help them offer loans to customers.

Meanwhile The Daily Telegraph says the business secretary is expected to announce at the meeting Government loans will be made available to help the car industry stimulate sales.