French government demands independent investigation of Bridgestone plant closure

Following a Monday 21 September meeting between Bridgestone management, trade unions, local politicians and French Industry Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher, the government asked for an expert opinion on the decision to close the Bethune tire plant, which will result in 863 job losses.

Last week, Japanese tire maker Bridgestone announced a plant closure. The French government condemned the move as "cruel".

Bridgestone attributed its decision to overcapacity in Europe and tough competition from Asian manufacturers. The company said it will be looking for a buyer for the site.

The tire manufacturer considers closing the Bethune plant "the only option".

The French government has demanded an independent review of Bridgestone's decision. Consulting firm Accenture has been tasked with re-examining various options for the plant and proposing alternatives to avoid closures and job losses, according to French media reports.

Following Monday's meeting, Industry Minister Agnes Pannier-Runaker said the government had rejected the decision to close the plant and refused to view the situation as inevitable. CFDT union chief Laurent Berger said in an interview that the situation around the Bridgestone plant proves the need for a law requiring companies that do not support the country's economy to return public money received.