UK car production tumbled almost 60% last month, according to SMMT figures.

The 59% year-on-year decline follows a 58.7% fall in January.

Moves to cut production and jobs by car makers including Nissan, BMW Mini and Land Rover has come in response to a sharp fall in car sales.

Following the figures’ release, Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, renewed his call for state aid.

"We have seen action to encourage longer-term investment, but still require government support for short-time working, easier access to finance and credit and the implentation of a vehicle scrapping scheme."