Home Secretary Jacqui Smith described the job losses at the Mini plant as “tragic” during a visit to Oxford today.

Visiting Cowley police station on other duties, Ms Smith, right, pledged to help the plant workers back into employment.

The Government has also been in regular contact with BMW in recent months, Ms Smith added.

She said: “It is a tragic day for all the individuals to lose their jobs and, of course, for their families.

“Andrew (Oxford MP Andrew Smith) and others have been very clear with me that the Cowley plant at the moment has a very strong future.

“Priorities are to work with Government, local development agencies and other authorities to make sure those who have lost their jobs get back to work as soon as possible. This is a Government priority.”

When asked if the Government could have stepped in earlier with funding to help the factory keep its workers, Ms Smith hailed a Government package announced two weeks ago to unlock credit by guaranteeing loans from European investment banks for car firms.

She added: “The Department of Business has been, and still is, in regular contact with BMW and other car manufacturers.

“For now, we will do everything as quickly as possible to help those who have lost their jobs.”

PM Gordon Brown said: “Clearly this is very disappointing news.

“All I can say is that the Government is doing and will do everything it can to help those affected.”