As we all know, we haven't much manufacturing industry left in this country.

But among what we do have, as Chancellor Gordon Brown acknowledged yesterday, the Mini plant in Oxford stands out as a shining example.

There were many who doubted the future of Cowley as a profitable base for car production after its decline in the 1970s and 1980s.

But they had not counted on the ambition, enterprise and determination of BMW.

Its investment in new plant has paid handsome dividends, with the Mini winning a new generation of admirers at home and abroad.

But the success is not due entirely to BMW. It could not have been achieved without the unswerving support of the local management and workforce, who have worked so well together to produce a succession of award-winning models.

It is right that we should shout from the rooftops and show our national leaders our achievements.

Who better than Mr Brown?

The 'Stop Gordon' campaign may be growing, but if our survey of councillors is repeated among Labour supporters nationwide, he is already assured of the keys to No 10.

To have the future Prime Minister on your side can do nothing but good to the continuing success story of Plant Oxford.