MP works in factory

Mr. Ray Carter, Labour M.P. for Northfield, Birmingham, donned overalls today at the start of a week's work on the factory floor at British Leyland's Longbridge plant.

Like thousands of his constituents who work at the Austin- Morris plant, Mr. Carter will clock in every morning, although he will not be taking home any money at the end of the week. His involvement follows an invitation from Lord Stokes when they were discussing the labour disruptions in the car industry.

Mr. Carter was allowed a late start today because he had to travel from his home at Bracknell, Berkshire. He was put on duties in the foundry and later had lunch in the canteen, where he discussed the industry's difficulties with other workers. Mr. Carter, who is a member of the Transport and General Workers' Union, was an electrical engineer before winning the Northfield seat in June. The company has mapped out several different jobs for him during the week.

"I really want to get down to what the men think about this company, their jobs, and the sort of problems they face," he said.