Coronavirus Economic Recovery Task Force to seek talks with Rolls-Royce

Derby’s Coronavirus Economic Recovery Task Force and Derby City Council are to seek talks with Rolls-Royce as the company deals with the impact of global lockdowns on the aviation sector.

The task force will hold discussions with the Government to understand what help it can offer, as the aerospace giant attempts to mitigate major reductions in its revenues as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Rolls-Royce has taken swift action to increase liquidity and dramatically reduce spending but have since suggested they may need to take further measures, such as reducing their international workforce – including at their Derby headquarters.

The company is working with employee and union representatives and has promised to update their staff before the end of the month.

The company is Derby’s largest private sector employer and its civil aerospace division is headquartered in Sinfin.

The Economic Recovery Task Force was formed last week to plan for the impacts of the pandemic on city businesses, offer practical short-term assistance wherever possible and draw up a longer-term plan to ensure Derby emerges from the crisis in as strong a position as possible.

St Peters Quarter BID are members of the task force which is chaired by Derby City Council’s Chief Executive and also includes the Cathedral Quarter BID, Rolls-Royce, intu Derby, the University of Derby, and Marketing Derby.