Tony Woodley and Derek Simpson, the joint general secretaries of the workers union, have voiced their concerns over the lack of consultation with the union over the potential sale of the two brands.

The union has called upon Ford for greater transparency in negotiations and also wants greater involvement in the sale process.

Woodley said: “We have not only reiterated our demands to be involved at all stages of any sale process but we want to meet any prospective buyer.

“So far the standard of information coming from Ford leaves a lot to be desired and we have left the company in no doubt of that.

“We will meet again in a couple of week's time where we hope to agree an acceptable way forward.”