A CAR maker has reiterated a call to hasten decisions on the UK’s future post-Brexit - but stopped short of admitting a prized model could leave the North-East.

Nissan says it wants government answers on how Britain’s business landscape will operate when the country leaves the EU.

The message came after chief executive, Carlos Ghosn, hinted the future of the Qashqai model, made at its near 7,000-strong job Sunderland plant, could hinge on a Downing Street “compensation” package.

The vehicle has helped push the Wearside factory to record production levels, with the base due to make models fitted with ‘auto-pilot’ technology next year.

The plant has also been chosen to manufacture a next generation battery for the Sunderland-made all-electric Leaf hatchback and an upgraded Juke model.

However, Mr Ghosn, speaking at the Paris Motor Show, said a decision on where to build an all-new Qashqai was looming, adding confirmation would be needed long before Brexit becomes a reality.

He added: “If I need to make an investment in the next few months and I can’t wait until the end of Brexit, then I have to speak to the government.

“You can have commitments of compensation in case you have something negative.”

A spokesman at Nissan’s Sunderland plant played down fears of any immediate Qashqai loss, though he admitted the company wants greater clarity over the UK’s future relationship with the EU.

He added: “Nissan is working closely with the government to ensure our UK investment continues.

“However, this depends on a number of important factors, including trade and tariff negotiations with the EU.

“Future decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis and it is in the interest of UK businesses and people that a resolution is reached as soon as possible.”