More than 60,000 orders for cars under the Government's scrappage scheme have been placed since the £2,000 subsidy was announced, according to new figures.

The Government said the news showed that the move to scrap vehicles which were at least 10 years old was helping to boost the car industry.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: "Consumers know a good deal when they see one. These figures speak for themselves.

"Car manufacturers continue to report on the success of the scheme with rising sales. It is the boost that the industry needs."

The scheme was announced at the end of April and the latest figures cover orders from then until June 7.